“THE TYPICAL EXPRESSION OF OPENING FRIENDSHIP WOULD BE SOMETHING LIKE, ‘WHAT? YOU TOO? I THOUGHT I WAS THE ONLY ONE.’”

– C.S. LEWIS

Entering an unfamiliar place can evoke strong feelings of trepidation. It can be intimidating or anxiety-inducing to walk through a door into an unknown situation for the first time. The excitement of starting a new job is often mixed with the stressed anticipation of the anonymous people and activities that await you. The joy and relaxation of attending a party or social event for the first time can be tinged with the hope of avoiding awkwardness, loneliness, or painful conversations.

You might recall the times when you have been somewhere for the first time. What were you hoping for? What were you looking for? Hopefully, one of the experiences that flood you with joy and relief is that of seeing a friendly face!

A friendly face can have significant meaning, as it can evoke feelings of comfort, trust, and positivity. For someone who may be feeling lonely, anxious, or stressed, seeing a friendly face can provide a sense of support and connection. It can also make someone feel welcomed and valued, which can boost their self-esteem and confidence. In some cases, it can also serve as a reminder of positive experiences and memories, further improving one’s mood and outlook. A friendly face can have a powerful impact on someone’s emotional wellbeing and relationships with others.

As Vincentians, meeting new people and seeing new faces come with the territory. Whether it is a Companion visiting one of our services for the first time or when we visit people in their homes, workplaces or public spaces, we often rely on our first impressions of the people we encounter. How do you greet a Companion when you are meeting them for the first time?

One of the key aspects of Saint Vincent de Paul’s spirituality was to see Christ in the poor and the poor in Christ. In other words, Jesus is especially recognisable in those people who are experiencing poverty and injustice. Our Christian tradition reminds us that we are all created in the likeness of God. We recognise the very real presence of God in one another. It is also a call to action. Recognising Christ in others means treating people with deep respect, compassion, and love. It is not always simple or easy to do this, especially when these values are not reciprocated. May you accept the challenge and provide the gift to others by being the friendly face that warmly greets the stranger at the door.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

• When have you felt included or excluded by others for the first time?
• How do you welcome others?

From: Firewood for the soul, vol. 2, A Reflexion Book for the Whole Vincentian Family
St. Vincent de Paul Society, Queensland, Australia.
Text by: Samantha Hill and James Hodge.