Today I had to head into the city which means an hour and a half commute and then the struggle to find parking. I ducked into a favourite hotel spot of mine knowing they have a decent underground parking garage but I thought best to check the height restrictions as my new vehicle sits a little on the high side. I slide up to the gentleman working valet and ask him the height of the underground. He said, you know what, how about you park over there by that other car and I'll look after it for you, just pay me. I said, are you sure? He said of course!
So I pull into the spot, a nice sized one that you aren't worrying about adding a few more door dings to both sides of your vehicle. The gentleman comes over, starts writing out my receipt and said, just keep your keys, you can stay here as long as you like. I ask him what his real name is, he's Greek. He tells me, George. I ask him how to say thank you in Greek. {Note to self: must learn a few greetings and sayings in Greek.} He must have appreciated the effort as he goes on to tell me about the owner of the car next to me to which I respond, really? I'm actually going to visit a competitor to him shortly. I tell him who I'm going to see and sure enough doesn't he know of him. He tells me his brother is a doctor not far from my friends business and they have purchased many items from my friends store one time for a special occasion. I say thank you so much (in butchered Greek), for looking after me and then leave my first meeting. An hour or so later, I head back to my car and am about to leave to see my friend. I try to find George to say thank you and goodbye. At first I don't see him but then as I was pulling out I did. I said, thank you so much my friend, I really appreciated your kindness. He said anytime!
So it just goes to show, by sparing a few moments and being kind, you can make some unbelievable connections with people. Something I think we are needing more of in this digital, online era we are living in that allows us to connect with people but maybe not form 'connections'.
And what I think is most important of all, if George is making similar impressions or connections with each customer, he is truly invaluable to that hotel and I hope they appreciate his kind ways.
Til next time...
PS. My 86 year old friend actually recalled him saying he has been there for years and is truly a lovely man. Go figure. #connections #kindnessalwaysca
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