This is a holiday that I’ve celebrated the last 2 years (and not on the same dates any of the years…it’s just one of those holidays)…and it’s about time for it again!

While some blogs don’t seem to like lurkers (someone who regularly reads a blog but never comments), I welcome them.  Sure, I love comments and would love for all my readers and stopp-er-by-ers to comment when they want to, but I recognize not all blog readers are commenters.

I want to invite you to let me know you’re here by commenting on this post, whether you’re a long-time commenter, new blog friend, or lurker.  You can tell me as much/little about yourself as you feel comfortable with, but I want to recognize your readership, whether you comment or not!

Today at the Ignorant Historian, I’m declaring it Hug-a-Lurker Day for 2009 (I celebrated it May 15 last year—I guess this’ll be one of those weird holidays that moves around each year).  Sure, I love comments a lot, but I wanted to give some special recognition to those who stop by my blog, even if you don’t comment.

Of all the blogs I read, there are a few I don’t comment on.  I know!  I don’t start out intending to be silent, but for whatever reason I enjoy reading their blogs, but don’t jump in.  I hope that’s not you, but if it is, it’s okay!  I just hope the reason that you don’t comment is not because you think you’ll be laughed at or feel like you don’t belong.  I might have a loud bark, but I promise I don’t bite!  Though I’ll only ever present my point-of-view in the post, I welcome all points-of-view in the comments.

So, my lovely readers, pick up your free hug at the door, and tell me: who are you?

Photo by Kalandrakas