During my second month of college, our professor gave us a pop quiz.
I was a conscientious student and had breezed through the questions until I read the last one:
"What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?"
Surely this was some kind of joke. I had seen the cleaning woman several times. She was tall, dark-haired and in her 50's, but how would I know her name? I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank.
Just before class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our quiz grade.
"Absolutely, " said the professor. "In your careers, you will meet many people. All are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say "hello".
I've never forgotten that lesson.. I also learned her name was Dorothy.
5 comments:
As you say, this has done the email rounds a few times, but it's always a good reminder :)
This is a great lesson. I live in a culture that often takes household staff for granted. Which means staff is used to it too and usually won't stand up in self-defense. Not in my house! My kids are being taught to say 'Please' and 'Thank you' and either help with the work our maid does, or stay politely out of her way. I remind them of how important this is in regards to not making a mess at a restaurant or not littering, etc. Just because it's someone else's job to do something, doesn't mean you take them, or their hard work, for granted.
Good post. I am terrible with names, so when I meet someone new I write it down and carry it around with me until I remember it. I always like to address people using their name,if possible, because I know it makes me feel special when people remember my name and use it when talking to me. I just think it makes people feel like the person is more caring and genuine when they know other's names.
And that is a wonderful life lesson!
XO,
Sheila :-)
Great lesson here.
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