True Hospitality

Having just returned home from a wonderful visit with family and friends, I have been giving some thought to what it is to be on the receiving end of hospitality. It is an experience that leaves me in awe of the impact of knowing I've been welcomed with open arms and countless gestures of comfort and generosity.

The word hospitality shares the same root as hospital and hospice, and as I was researching these words, one source reminded me that in reality, hospitality has to do with care-giving and healing. That is exactly right. Through hospitality extended to me, I have been refreshed, strengthened, encouraged and renewed.  I have been welcomed into the home and heart of my family.  I have been welcomed into the home of a friend.  I have been welcomed home.

Whether it is in hosting a guest, spending time with my family, sitting down with a friend over a cup of tea, or just pausing to greet someone in passing, I want to be that person who extends hospitality in every sense of the word.  Listening, giving a hug, seeing to needs, speaking words of encouragement, letting others know they are valued and worthy of time and attention.....all these and more define hospitality as it is meant to be.

" 'Stay' is a charming word in the vocabulary of a friend." ~  Louisa May Alcott ~