When Two Straight Guys Hold Hands…

5 June
Posted by yeahdave

Driving through the streets of Cochi, India in the winter of 2006, I saw two guys, mid 20’s, rather masculine in their appearance, on a leisurely stroll. They were conversing, laughing, have a grand old time. But something was different. These two guys were holding hands. The guide proceeded to tell me that it’s very normal for men to hold hands in India, and it’s weird that in America, men do not hold hands. That comment stuck with me for many years.

–The other day I was at the Exhale yoga studio after my yoga class. A male student who frequents my class was perusing the books in the boutique. He’s a really nice guy and I figured: he always comes to my class, maybe he’d like to hold hands while looking at the books. After all, it is a yoga studio and yoga is from India, and it is OK for men to hold hands in India.

–A few moments later, I saw another friend from the yoga studio getting a tea in the lobby. I stopped putting on my shoes and thought to myself: what better time to hold hands then while getting a refreshing tea.

–As I left the Exhale yoga studio, I saw a gentleman sitting at a patio table. I introduced myself and figured: hey this looks like a kind soul, I think I’ll sit down and chat, and maybe hold hands.

–And finally, later that night, I was watching the Laker game with a buddy. Ever so excited, we high-fived and continued watching the game. I thought to myself: this is so wonderful, two friends livin’ the moment, rooting on our favorite team…I think I’ll try to hold his hand.

I asked my friend to covertly film all four attempts at holding hands. Please take a moment to watch the video by clicking here.