Every day when I return home from work, my two adorable dogs jump around madly, wag their tails, and spin in circles until I pick them up and love on them. Then, when it is time to leave again in the morning, they walk me to the door and wag their tails goodbye.
Have you ever sat at the airport and watched family members excitedly greet their loved ones after a long trip or tearfully say goodbye as they head off to the gate? Do you remember the first time you dropped your child off at preschool and later that day when you picked them up? At drop-off, maybe the hug lingered a bit longer, there were some tears, and their little hand waved in the window until they could no longer see your car driving away. Then, at pick-up, they ran to you, bursting with excitement, saying, “Mommy, mommy, mommy!” you held out your arms, ready to be reunited after three long hours apart!
The Power of Hellos and Goodbyes
Reflecting on such moments, I am reminded of the power of “hellos” and “goodbyes.” What if everywhere we went, greetings were traded with such genuine affection and love? And then, when it was time to part, hugs lasted a little longer, and there was one more, “I love you.”
Life is busy. Wake up, eat breakfast, grab your bag, zip off to school, make it just in time…finish your day, head home, eat, go to practice, eat again, bathe, do homework, bedtime, and sleep…then it all starts again. It can be hard to connect and be present when life moves fast, with long to-do lists, early start times, and demanding deadlines. However, no matter how busy the day, how crazy the schedule, or how stressful the week…, when the ‘hellos’ and ‘goodbyes’ are solid, everything that happens in between can be managed.
Be Intentional with Hellos and Goodbyes
This week’s challenge: Be intentional with your “hellos” and “goodbyes.” Greet your spouse like you used to when you first started dating. Say goodbye like they are leaving for a long trip. Drop off and pick up your child like you did on that first day of preschool…yes, even your middle schooler! Maybe don’t run at them with open arms and tears in your eyes…but be intentional. Be present. Be in the moment…even if it is just for a moment.
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