I LOVE my country, I really do, and that’s why I am always thinking of ways to improve it, make it more efficient and provide an atmosphere where all can benefit.
Those who know me well know that I love to travel and be in foreign environments. Over the years, I have been to some amazing places, seen some amazing things and met some amazing people. I am also very observant and always analysing and seeking ways in which I would improve an operation or a product to make it more efficient and beneficial to those it was designed to serve and indirectly to those who may benefit on the back end.
I ask a lot of questions and I am not bothered if you think it’s a silly question because there is a purpose. We can learn so much more when we hear the opinions, views and experiences of others.
My body becomes charged and my creativity and mind stimulated whenever I get on an airplane. Actually, from the time I arrive at the airport, I am not just ready to travel, I am ready to learn. Many times we travel abroad and are primarily focused on the task at hand. Though that is important, many of us miss many opportunities to learn new things, observe efficient systems, compare local and international methodologies and, greatest of all, build new networks and relationships through meeting people.
Well, well, well! I just recognised that none of what I have written so far was what I had planned to speak on. Oh well, I am okay with just going with the flow and seeing where this all ends up.
From the time I stand in the ticketing line here in Barbados, I am ready to seize that opportunity to connect with someone. Everyone may not be extroverted or a great communicator or a people’s person, but everyone has the ability to greet someone. On numerous occasions, both here and abroad, I have greeted airport staff and seen their faces light up with appreciation that they were noticed. Listen, we are all going through stuff and have our many burdens and issues and sometimes your greeting is that person’s salvation from giving up.
Let me share one experience:
Lady: Good morning, ticket please.
Me: Good morning, and how are you doing?
Lady: I am okay (no smile).
Me: You look so tired and stressed already.
Lady: I am, but I’ll be okay.
Me: Well . . . my presence alone should make you smile (with an animated smile and arms outstretched).
Lady: (Breaking down laughing and genuinely saying) Thanks so much for that.
I don’t know what that laughter did for that lady’s day but I know a “seed” was planted.
I have never travelled first class and if I could afford it, I would when doing direct flights that are eight to 15 hours in length. Nonetheless, once I had just completed travels from Malaysia to England to Scotland to Amsterdam, back to England and needed to change my ticket to come home early because I had developed my first case of sinusitis.
I am sure that I was upgraded to business class because I was very nice and genuine in my communication with the ticketing lady. Lesson? Sometimes being nice benefits you as well.
I have also had beautiful experiences just talking with the person sitting next to me on a flight. I can’t tell you the number of times I have been able to encourage random people and in some way impact their lives and they mine. Next time you travel, take some time to talk to someone. Also, be observant and see what methodologies or procedures that are working elsewhere that can be tweaked and implemented here, so on your return you can share that knowledge.
This month and the next, I am travelling to two places I have never been before and I can’t wait to encourage someone or they encourage me, and also gain new knowledge to bring back that can benefit my homeland.
Wow, maybe next week I will get to talk about ZRs being banned from Redman’s Village gas station or the National Organisation of Women’s unbalanced response to Captain Sawyer’s song.
Corey Worrell, a former Commonwealth Youth Ambassador, is director of C2J Foundation Inc., a project-based NGO focusing on social development. Email [email protected].
