Common courtesy can inspire gratitude

It has been said of late that common courtesy is not so common any more. While this may be true, there are still pockets of it around. I say this because I recently experienced two instances of it.

The first occasion was last week. I went for a preliminary consultation for a minor surgical procedure I need to have. At this doctor’s office I experienced courtesy and professionalism of the highest level.

A cheerful greeting from the person at the front desk, a brief 10-minute wait (which included time for filling out one form) before someone led me to an examination room, the calm demeanor of the one confirming my medical history, and an unrushed exam and conversation with the surgeon left me feeling well cared for and that they were taking me seriously.

There was a problem with insurance codes at the check-out window when I went to pay. The same cheerful woman that welcomed me worked hard to get matters clarified, even going "up the ladder" in the billing office to get matters straightened out. They were.

I then asked a question this cheerful woman couldn’t answer, but that was okay because I didn’t really need an answer. However, before reaching my car in the parking lot, I heard my name called. She came running out with an answer to my question. I was pleased, grateful, and downright bowled over.

Talk about going the second mile! I was treated with courtesy and helpfulness.

On the second occasion, my wife and I went out to dinner this past week. It was a nice restaurant. The ambience was wonderful. The food was excellent. But what truly made an impression was the demeanor of our server.

She has been working there only a month, but her courteousness, politeness, timing, and attention to our needs were all spot on. This young lady was poised and professional. She chatted and laughed with us without being intrusive in the least.

So wonderful was our experience that I did something I very rarely do. I spoke with the manager to give my compliments for the food and dining experience, but more importantly to give our praise about our server. (And yes, her tip reflected our pleasure.)

While courtesy may not be so common any more, I would encourage you to live according to the standards of our Lord. One of his teachings to take to heart is, "Treat others the same way you want to be treated."

If we all do that, common courtesy will become common once again.

The Rev. Mark Broadhead is pastor at Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church and First Presbyterian Church of Crestview.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Common courtesy can inspire gratitude