My quest for breakfast did not go unrewarded. I almost went next door; I knew it would be a great breakfast. Instead, life pushed me towards a new place. It was an amazing introduction to an intersection of commitment, quality, and kindness. It felt as if I was sitting down at a table with friends in a village in Provence.
As I walked in, I could feel the French culture. I could smell love infused in the food. The words and actions that followed were a long, warm, and caring embrace. I opened the menu and a note from the management on the bottom right of the menu was another tangible example of what my emotions were telling me. This establishment is committed to supporting the local community by purchasing from small local farms.
As I enjoyed an amazing meal, I found myself reflecting on the principles and values I was experiencing. This morning’s lessons can be taken into today and beyond.
Start with care. From the preparation, with the introduction, and in the experience, I was in a place that cared about the people, community, and nature that sustains it. It was not casual. It is not driven by the bottom line. It is driven by principles and values that are demonstrated in intentional action. They took the old words, “Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality,” (Romans 12.13) and adopted to today’s needs to care for the environment, invest in the community, and accept everyone as s/he is.
Build on it with kindness. As I thanked the waiter for my breakfast, he asked if I enjoyed it. To my enthusiastic “Yes”, he replied with a twinkle in his eye, “Can I bring another plate?” As I laughed, I realised I was comfortable and safe. I wanted to be here. I want to bring others to this experience.
Do everything with love. It has been a while since I was in a place where everyone was smiling. My commitment is to take what I was given and share it as a gift with each step.
