Still afraid?

Psychologists say that holding hands, is a great way to show affection to those we love, especially kids because it serves as a great way of re-affirming them that they are loved and appreciated. Doctors explain that holding hands reduces the blood pressure in our bodies. We all have a reason why we hold hands.
A few months ago, I re-connected with a long lost friend after a period where none had spoken to the other. He wanted me to be his girlfriend, and as the feeling of excitement swelled up in me, I felt that I still held my reservations of saying no to his asking. I reluctantly played along to his tune of sweet words, but I kept my emotions at bay, not just yet! I did not want to just say yes, and then maybe along the way get heart broken. Every girl desires to meet this special man that is willing to ride the horse with her, a prince charming as most people would say. But at the same time we carry a certain kind of uncertainty if this is it for us or is he just going to end up like the other guy who walked away and left us nursing a heart break. I later on said yes
Later on in one of our conversations, he boldly asked me, “are you still afraid of holding hands in public?” He was referring to a certain time in our friendship,where he had once attempted to hold my hand as we walked down a street, and I pulled away reminding him sharply that in Africa we don't do the whole PDA( Public display of affection) thing.
Again my refusal was influenced by an unpleasant memory of how my mother had once reacted when she once saw a boy hold my hand. I was told that it was disrespectful and embarrassing.
His question certainly got me off guard. I didn't know what to say, but to be honest, over the years in my studies at school and through talking and sharing experiences with others, my view on this has changed .I believe in holding hands, and I support it. Its a way of communicating to a person and letting them know that you care.
Today, i am more than confident of this, and you all can guess what my answer was!