Via Skype:

“[15:09:24] <ex colleague> says: do me a favour

[15:09:36] <ex colleague> says: go to <a current colleague>’s desk…

[15:09:41] <ex colleague> says: and give her a hug from me

[15:09:43] <ex colleague> says: “

A strange request but I figure, why not? I’ve read enough about how therapeutic hugs are…

So off I went… a few steps down the corridor, around the corner, to a team room with people tapping away at their desks and gave her a big squeeze with a message from the sender. A welcome interruption and more than enough of a reason to smile and laugh.

Back at my desk, I double-click <ex colleague>’s name. Tap, tap, tap; “… She says thanks.”

I should have thanked him too; because of his little request, the day was a little brighter for all of us.