You can make all the difference in the world of a person’s well-being by simply saying hello. I once heard a man tell a story of how his life was in the dumps, he had fought but failed to get out of his depressed state. Lost job, failed marriage and life stressors were finally taking their toll. His friends stopped talking to him, his life simply had no meaning. He decided the day and was prepared, sure to leave behind envelopes for his wife and two kids explaining how he failed them and instructing them on where money etc. that was left was to be found. He was a man of faith and was sure God was ok with this as he prayed hard for someone, anyone to see him, acknowledge him, and yet none came. You see he made a bargain, if God sent just one person, he would take that as a sign of hope. As he drove to his predestined location with a loaded .38 caliber revolver wrapped in a towel next to him, he sobbed at all he had lost. He was two blocks from the deserted park and came up to his final stop sign. A man in a car pulled up next to him, turned his head towards him and made a motion for him to roll his window down. As he did so, wondering why this stranger was calling to him, sure he needed directions, the man said "Hello, I just want to tell you God loves you and he made this day for you". Im told the person simply drove away telling him to enjoy his beautiful day! The depressed man had to pull over and began sobbing harder and thanked God for this stranger who "saw" him. His letters were found before he returned home, his family convinced him to seek help and they all restored their broken family. He ended up securing a job and a few years after I meet him and he told me how great their marriage was, he found a new church and his family was made whole again.

 

Why did I choose this story to share? What value is this for security of safety team members? Simply this, always remember we don't ever know what baggage folks are carrying behind their painted on smiles on Sunday mornings. We must act as God wants us to and Love one another. Be vigilant yes, but first and foremost stop raising eyebrows and simply say "Hello" followed by a "How are you doing this morning, or "Welcome we are so glad to see you here today" can make and change a life. Follow up with those you see that are hurting with a phone call, set up a coffee meet or invite them to a church study, growth group or whatever. So many school shooters were like the man in my story, no one talked to them, they were bullied, pushed aside and just plain hurting on the inside. Make a difference, be a true Christ follower and during your safety patrols or hours on duty, remember to Love on folks.