HELLO!

I mentioned in yesterday’s blog how I attended a gathering of non-profit and government staff as we sat at tables as clients with low-incomes came into this large Hall, upstairs and downstairs, to address their needs. In years past, the most popular table was…free haircuts! Who knew? This year, none of the stylists were there, so the most popular table in 2026 was the ID Clinic, people who lost all their ID, often at the shelter where they live. How do I know this? I was positioned at the front door, I was the first face, voice, every client met as they walked in. Many had never been in this Hall before or attended such a service fair. They had questions, many were anxious, having a familiar face/voice helped. As each new participant walked in the door I heard, “Kevin!” Lucian says, growing up, walking in downtown Dartmouth or Halifax, they were surprised to discover their Dad knew all the business owners and all those sitting on blankets, asking for support. “Anyone else would not know these two groups, but not only do you know them, they are likely wearing something you gave them…” This is an exaggeration, but not by much.

When I sit or stand waiting for newcomers, I try to imagine how I would feel walking in the door, or my wife Kim, who is an introvert. Not everyone is like me, thank heavens, so it is important to move beyond the Golden Rule, not just do for others as we would want done for us, but also as those different than us would want done for them. If I say HELLO! and newcomer seems to be a little overwhelmed I will recalibrate, go to my quieter and calmer gear. Yes, I can do this. I will say this, more people than you may expect, like the HELLO! greeting, it comes with passion, enthusiasm and joy. That can be contagious, even for those who are much quieter. I find in a culture of “same”, where many try their best to fit in, say and do what is expected, offering something slightly different, can be a pleasant surprise. Generally, to offer a more joy-filled greeting to make an impression that can last, stand out. And, if your goal, as a church, non-profit or government agency, is to help the other remember your program or your ministry, being slightly “different” is not a bad thing.

My calling card at my navigator job, which is based on one-year contracts, that could end any time, is “I call you back right away”. 18 years later THAT is what most of the clients and referring agency staff remember about me, “you’re the guy who always calls back right away”.

HELLO! Have a great day. Peace, Kevin