I’d have thought at this point in our lives, we’d be experts at offering a warm welcome to a newcomer by now. We’ve been that new kid on the block before, the outsider, the new member of that well established club, feeling that anxiety and degree of uncertainty as we signed in to be a part of something new for the first time. It can be uncomfortable sometimes but also well worth that effort as we’re greeted and introduced and offered a seat at the table, whichever “table” it is that we are seeking to be a part of.
Don’t you think?
One issue that could cause some resistance on our part, at times, might be remembering names because it can be hard to do. We can laugh about it and just ask for that reminder the next time we encounter that person.
Nodding and repeating a person's name and reoffering “ours” can sometimes help but being honest and straightforward is the best approach all the way around.
There are definitely two sides to this coin, isn’t there?
Why is it so hard to open up to the art of being “welcoming” sincerely to someone new in our community?
I think from what I’ve personally experienced it relates to not fully comprehending a new person's feelings of vulnerability when they’re not familiar with a group and their true desire to just want to fit in easily but uncertain as to how to do that.
I do recall the first time I attended a new place of worship and felt a surprising level of invisibility. Even after the service ended, not a single soul that I crossed paths with, gave me a nod of welcome with a simple gesture of a polite smile. In truth, I was more intrigued by this lack of effort than put off. I am always seeking ways to help those in my day to day classes and programs who might be encountering the same issues. It also enlightened me as to why more individuals chose not to attend a program or a class because they were doing so as a solo participant.
It’s a hard thing to do…! All the way around.
I hope this short but poignant consideration has piqued your interest or might create a conversation that focuses your group on developing new ways to greet and welcome those new to your gathering.
Welcome committees might also be educated with some simple dialogue and learning some kind inquiries that begin the process of inclusion within your group. Starting with something as sincere and making eye contact coupled with a smile. Elevating your tone might also be helpful , just in case, the new person has a hearing issue that is not outwardly noticeable at first. Many times, if you offer someone new time to speak, you’ll learn more than overtalking would ever do.
To welcome someone means to make space, in your group, in your heart and in your recollection of their intentions when you see them a second or more times.
It’s a gift you give to others and possibly, if it's an amicable development of a relationship, to each other.
This world, our worlds, just become a better place to live.
Pat Larsen is a syndicated columnist in Greene County and surrounding areas. She offers fitness classes for her favorite people, Baby Boomers and Seniors weekly and brings professionals in to talk about AGING WITH GRACE four times a year in East Durham at the Shamrock House.
Feel free to contact Pat at 518-275-8686
Remember to Subscribe!
0 comments:
Post a Comment