Tags
Dictionary.com defines “welcoming” as “greeting the arrival of (a person or object) with pleasure or kindly courtesy”.
Twice when reading this I saw “curiosity” instead of “courtesy”. I actually think that “curiosity” is the more accurate response in most cases. What this calls to mind is two children meeting each other…kindly, but really curious about the other one’s life, home, or situation. Lily, especially, rarely meets a stranger she doesn’t like, and she collects new “friends” the way a smoker collects matchbooks.
To take that initial greeting up to the next level requires a bit of effort on our part. Our pleasure at greeting someone needs to be combined with a healthy curiosity about them, in order to figure out what our relationship to them will be.
Were you welcoming towards someone today? Tell me about it in the comments section.
triggershorse 
Sometimes it is comforting to see someone you have grown fond of. A smile or nod will do. Other times a hug.
Leslie
LikeLike
That’s the lovely thing about church. Not only do we share handshakes with the “peace”, it is totally appropriate to hug in greeting. Human touch is an amazingly powerful thing! – Fawn
LikeLike
Amen to that.
Leslie
LikeLike
Being not only a talker, but also a person who works in the hospitality business, I have been trained to always be as welcoming. Today when Nick & I were walking through the shops and galleries in Pismo & San Luis Obisbo I enjoyed speaking to all the shop keepers, curators & parking attendants. It is so wonderful to be welcoming and have pleasant interactions with the people you come across. Don’t get me wrong, I have my bad days, but for the most part I try to live my life nice and welcoming to everyone.
The restaurant business might have honed my skills, but the seed was planted by you my dear mom. When I think of welcoming you are what comes to mind. You are the most generous and welcoming of anyone I’ve ever known. You have always been the “community mom” collecting all my friends and making them your own. You are truly one of a kind. I love you mom.
LikeLike
Oh, sweetheart, that brought tears to my eyes. I love you, too! – Mom
LikeLike
In real estate I feel like I meet someone new most days of the week. It is amazing how much can be “said” with a smile and gracious handshake. You don’t always get that, but it is lovely when you do. It seems to make everyone more relaxed and comfortable. Thanks for posting!
LikeLike
The gift of hospitality — of truly making people feel welcome — is such a special one. The difference between a real estate agent who knows the value of a genuine smile and handshake and one just for “show” is remarkable. – Fawn
LikeLike