Saying “Hi” (06/08/2024)

Last evening, as I sat at a table in the local bistro for dinner, visiting with my friend at the table, I felt a tap on my arm. I turned and there was a woman I knew, the mother of two of my previous students in faith formation. She smiled and said, “You always stop and tell us hello. Tonight, I thought it was my turn to reach out.”

That gesture truly meant a great deal to me. I do stop and say “hi” whenever I encounter another whom I know. They are brief chats, but hopefully what is remembered is that I recognized the person, and that the person matters to me. Her coming by the table and speaking told me just that.

As I reflected on it last evening, I realized how important the little things are in the grand scheme of life, the momentary stops at tables, the gestures of recognition, the “checking in” with one another along the way. Their worth isn’t measured in their length but in their acknowledgment of another, “I see you, and you matter.”

Don’t we all desire to be seen? Don’t we all desire the knowledge that we matter, that our being makes a difference?

Last evening, as I recalled the moments, I felt affirmed in my care for others, I felt that my table visitor had recognized my authentic concern for her and her family. And it wasn’t lost on me that I received back what I had given away.

Christ tells us that we are to love one another as He has loved us. As we go forward this day, let us take the time to notice those around us, to care for them, to acknowledge their presence, to accompany one another even if only for a minute or two. These short “accompaniments” matter to those whom we acknowledge, and they matter in our journey as we try to follow in Christ’s footsteps.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.