Eyes, hugs, smiles, food
From Setting the Table by Danny Meyer:
Within moments of being born, most babies find themselves receiving the first four gifts of life: eye contact, a smile, a hug and some food...That first time may be the purest "hospitality transaction" we'll ever have, and it's not much of a surprise that we'll crave those gifts for the rest of our lives.
In the end, what's most meaningful is creating positive, uplifting outcomes for human experiences and human relationships. Business, like life, is all about how you make people feel. It's that simple and it's that hard.
We are born with intuitive needs for eye contact, a smile, a hug and some food...and never outgrow them! Everyone around us needs each of these as well. How is it that we have become so selective and reserved with our loving care?
One of the basic principles I have taught my students and teachers over the years is simple. If someone gives to you - reciprocate; if someone withholds from you - initiate! Either way, we have no excuse to withhold giving from our hearts. It's that simple and it's that hard.
P.S. For a long time, I thought the Christmas carol was entitled "God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen". I have learned that the comma was misplaced; it's really "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen". What a difference a comma placement makes. So, from the carol, my blessing to each of you is, God rest ye merry, and may a heart of extravagant giving be yours this Christmas and for the rest of your life!
~ Dean Boyer
Also, from the JJL archives:
- Jubilant Learners Speak Up! An Interview with Setting the Table author Danny Meyer.
- Setting the Table, The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business, A book review by Rosa Say written for A Love Affair with Books
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