Hospitality transforms work into life.
- Jacques Dufresne

A winding path leads to Lyn’s brightly painted front door. The bell is barely rung and there she is, eyes twinkling, smile beaming, extending her hand in welcome. ‘How lovely to see you,’ Lyn says in her low, genteel voice. She takes my coat while asking how I am. She looks right into my eyes waiting for my answer and I am led to feel this is a question of great importance. She leads me to her sunny living room. “You must be cold. Let me get you something warm to drink.” She returns shortly with my tea and sits squarely in front of me, giving me her full attention, ready for conversation. Warm and comfortable, basking n the rays of her attention, I realise I am in the presence of a true master of hospitality.

The astonishing thing is that Lyn, who lives with a mental illness, has known more rejection than welcome in her life time. Over the years she has been institutionalized, bullied, ostracized and ignored. Yet she still gently welcomes others with a warmth and genuineness that would make Martha Stewart blush.

When we are in the presence of someone truly hospitable we feel as though we belong, that we are where we are supposed to be. Their direct gaze and open welcome disarm us. We feel them by our side, guiding us in. The experience of genuine hospitality is a gift. The warmth of inclusion enriches us.

Hospitality is a word about comfort, security, refreshment, refuge, friends and family. It is central to the social practices of many societies and is necessary for human well being. Hospitality offers protection, provision, and respect to strangers. It also maintains and deepens bonds among family, friends, and acquaintances.