Caring for People

I had a very special experience last week. I'm reflecting on the impact that I've had on other people and what that means for me, and for all of us.

I'd delivered an intimate ashes scattering ceremony, for just six people. I thought it had gone fairly well, despite being outdoors in cold weather, and impending rain, all of which demands some planning in advance! The feedback on the day was gratifying, but I always wonder if that’s just politeness on their part. But when the client called me a week later I was really taken aback by the praise for the service I'd given. He complimented my caring approach, that I looked after everyone concerned and that my attention to detail was top notch. He felt I connected with his wishes, that I really listened to him and understood what he wanted, then delivered way beyond his expectations. He said his guests were equally delighted with the ceremony and the way I had conducted it. In their opinion I had truly reflected the deceased’s character, while also taking their needs into consideration.

Sometimes it makes me wonder what kind of service other people deliver, that my approach makes such a difference. Perhaps we could all stop and think about how we look after other people: how we care about other people's views and thoughts, how we connect and how we listen. Sometimes that's all that somebody needs: someone to listen.