Most mornings, as I stepped through the gym doors, I was greeted by the unchanging expression of a young woman at the front check-in counter. Her stoic demeanor seemed to create an invisible barrier as she mechanically processed my check-in without uttering a word. Each time I attempted to break through that silence with a smile and a heartfelt “thank you,” her mumbled response was distant and indifferent. This routine continued for many months, but I decided to make it my mission to connect with her on a deeper level.
Determined to chip away at the invisible wall, I began to approach her each morning with intention. I looked her straight in the eyes, offering a warm smile and a few genuine words of encouragement. My goal was simple: to show her that I noticed her and valued her.
After nearly two years of this persistent kindness, something remarkable began to happen—she started to soften. Gradually, her walls began to lower, and the once-frosty atmosphere began to thaw. I noticed the transformation when she was the first to greet me one morning with a smile and a cheerful “good morning.” It was a small yet significant shift, one that resonated deeply with me. Through our evolving interactions, I learned invaluable lessons about patience, empathy, and the power of connection.
Reflecting on this experience, I couldn’t help but think about all the moments I had hastily navigated through life, swept up in my to-do lists. I realized how often I had brushed past individuals, oblivious to the potential joy and encouragement I could bring into their lives.
In today’s fast-paced world, it seems we have mostly lost the art of truly connecting with one another, of genuinely seeing and acknowledging those around us. It’s been noted that Gen Z is often referred to as the “loneliness generation.” Even with technology providing unprecedented access to communication, many young people still struggle with feelings of isolation. The pseudo-human interaction has replaced real, raw, and authentic connections between people.
This realization led me to ponder my theme for the year, and the word “see” echoed in my mind. I yearn to truly see people. Instead of rushing through the day, I aim to slow down and engage with those around me, recognizing that everyone carries a unique story worth hearing. People are often craving authentic human interaction—something real that they can hold onto. Yet, in a world where genuine “people skills” are increasingly rare, interactions can feel awkward or be met with suspicion; many simply don’t know how to embrace kindness from a stranger. I have learned to be okay with the process and steadfastly pursue loving people.
In the many moments captured in the life of Jesus, we see a masterclass in purposefully seeing others. Every day, every minute, and every second, He sees humanity.
As we strive to reflect His image to others, may we consciously choose to move more slowly, focus on each individual in front of us, and take every opportunity to encourage, value, and invest in the lives of those we encounter.
May we continue to live…
Rooted in Him,
