“Kisses are such simple things, we hardly notice them. But if we paid more attention, we’d see that each kiss conveys a meaning all its own. For example, some can say, ‘I’m so happy to see you.’ Or, ‘I didn’t realize you’d be here.’ Or ‘honey, it’s time to stop drinking.’ The trick is in knowing how to tell the difference.

The act itself never varies. But each kiss carries with it a meaning all its own. It can convey a husband’s eternal devotion. Or a wife’s enormous regret. It can symbolize a mother’s growing concern. Or a lover’s growing passion. But whatever its meaning, each kiss reflects a basic human need. The need to connect to another human being. This desire is so strong it’s always amazing when some people don’t understand it.”