The food arrived for lunch right on time. The setting was bright, colorful, and appetizing. There were options for all types of individuals, including a wide range for vegetarians. With the combination of fresh fruit, desserts, and several mains, expectations were high that everyone would be satisfied.
The reactions were scattered across a broad spectrum. One might have hoped that our reactions would have been consistent, something like the group confronted by a bright light. Their response was uniform, even as they described it later; “it was so bright! We fell flat on our faces.” (Acts 26.13) With today’s meal, the range of responses exceeded anyone’s imagination. To capture the mix, the comments in contrast to each other looked something like this.
“I am not hungry” to “wow, I am starving!”
“I cannot handle spicy food” to “is there anything really local?”
“I love healthy variety” to “is this safe or healthy?”
There were as many reactions as individuals present.
The local staffed smiled and kept serving. It was as if nothing could disturb their mission. They were there to deliver the food. They knew what they were serving would meet the needs of the individuals present. Yet, they also listened. They carried an attitude of being willing to hear the questions and understand the requests. Their response suggested they were willing to do what they could to address the concerns, answer the questions, and adapt to the changing needs.
We live in a mass-market world that offers to customize at a price. Rarely is anything bespoked, however it is often packaged that way. Reactions are analyzed, categorized, and put into a range of emotional options. If we slipped around the predicted range, the next edition will incorporate the new finding.
I found myself studying the staff. They were single minded in their assignment yet adapting to what was in the present. They knew what they had while adapting to more. They were confident in their actions while still willing to look at more.
Staff members carry a wonderful attitude of service. Adoption is an option.
