They joys of connection

Posted: March 8, 2018

I never knew being a Concierge could be so rewarding. It has been a wonderful honor and privilege getting to know our elders who call Someren Glen their home, along with their family members who come to visit their loved ones. I have the awesome privilege to encourage those around me, listen to stories about their lives and families, and being able to offer a hug or a shoulder to cry on when needed.

Just the other day while delivering the mail, I saw one of our residents and asked how she was doing. She looked up at me and said she was mad. I looked her straight in the eye and told her she didn’t look mad to me, which made her laugh. She then proceeded to tell me, with tears in her eyes, how much she missed seeing her son, because he had been out of town for several weeks. I told her he had just phoned a few moments ago and wanted one of the nurses to help her place a call so that they could talk on the phone. Her face lit up and beamed with joy of the news. Tears once again returned to her eyes and I quickly reminded her how blessed she was to have children who loved her so much. With a big smile on her face, she agreed. I gave her a hug and was off to finish my deliveries.

I’m glad I had taken that moment in time to engage in a brief conversation with her and offer a bit of encouragement.

Other days being the first person someone meets as they enter our doors can be harder as you offer a hug and condolences to a family member who has recently lost their loved one, listening as a caregiver tearfully comes to the realization they need to place a spouse or parent, or calm the nerves of someone coming in for an interview. Being a Concierge offers a variety of ways to represent Someren Glen to those around us not only when they call in, but when a guest comes through our door.

I hope you’ll take time today to offer a word of encouragement, a smile, or a hug to those around you. I would love to hear if you were surprised when instead of giving the blessing, you were the one who was blessed.

Written by a former team member.