Somewhere along the way people have forgotten. That a hug was never just a hug, a kiss never just a kiss. These are all empty interactions. Yes, they carry the weight of convention, the cacophony of romantic notions. Yes, they prompt a physiological response, the illusion of intimacy. But I have locked lips with people in hate, and blown air kisses at people when I was too shy to get close to them. I have hugged people that I had no desire to see again, and those I would miss a little tighter.
So you see, it is still a blank gesture - still waiting for me to pose a question to it, and for you to answer that question. It is a sign that only means something if we will it to.