Hello!

Just over two years ago I had brain surgery. After the surgery I had to regain my strength. I chose to start walking. With somebody alongside me to make sure I didn’t fall, I started walking around our apartment complex. I started with short distances and eventually built up to longer distances.I received a lot of benefits from walking. I’ve lost around 80 pounds. I sleep sounder. I have a lot more energy. And I have a brighter, more positive outlook on things. I have much to be thankful for.

While walking one day, I started to wave a greeting to the cars entering and exiting the apartment complex. For a while, I didn’t think much about it. Then I began to notice that people were smiling and waving back to me. Some didn’t, but most did. Then I noticed that people were beginning to wave to me first. Then it didn’t matter if they were in a car or walking or sitting outside, people would wave and smile. Soon we were having conversations and becoming friends. Then my wife and I would begin to bring meals to some of the people that had needs. Some who were virtual shut-ins began to get out more. The apartment complex became a much friendlier place.

The apostle Paul understood the power of a friendly greeting. At the end of his letters to churches Paul often wrote something similar to Romans 16:16, which says, “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” Jesus commended His followers who greeted him and his children; “I was a stranger and you made me welcome.” Matthew 25:35

A warm greeting encourages the recipient. It also gives joy to the giver. It brings people together as my little story confirms. Take time today to give warm greetings to those who intersect your life.