For me it was when I was in 6th grade. We were with a group of classmates at the local roller skating rink. The announcer called for a “couple’s skate,” something that involved skating with a partner while holding hands.

I don’t remember who asked who, although I do remember she wasn’t always too nice to me in the classroom. That said, I have no idea if the girl saw it as romantic, but I sure did. I remember my hand getting sweaty. I even remember the song that was playing, Michael Murphey’s “Wildfire.”

Round and round we went.

(Pause for reflection.)

Romantically or otherwise, is there better advice than this, to hold hands?

Think about what it means.

Packed in there is taking care of each other, feeling connected, and the safety of one’s children. There’s the metaphorical “a hand to hold” to show support.

And then, of course, there is the romance of holding hands.