Author: Harrison Baer
5 weeks ago, I hit my head incredibly hard on a low-beam ceiling. I will not repeat the words that came out of my mouth that day, but they were not pleasant. My father and younger brothers laughed at my clumsiness. The bartender had a different reaction. “Are you ok love?”
Chichester is a dainty, peaceful town two hours south of London. Houses in the area are typically painted various shades of white, with clay red or brown roofs. The landscape is serene, featuring lush green, rolling farmland. Like many small towns in the UK, Chichester is quite old. In fact, it is so old that door frames stand around six feet. Not to toot my own horn, but I’m a tall guy. My height was less than ideal during my trip to England.
Anyways, back to June 6th. Although I had just bonked myself, I felt a sense of warmth inside. The bartender’s concern was sincere and genuine. It made my day.
Later that night, I decided to stay at Hare and Hounds after my family left. I sat at the bar and chatted with my new friend. I told her my favorite movie was Kung Fu Panda, and I liked playing piano in my free time. She told me the story of how she met her husband. She asked follow-up questions and listened with care. I did the same.
Eventually I found myself as the last visitor in the bar. I asked her when they closed.
“About 15 minutes ago.”
“What? Why didn’t you let me know?”
“Don’t worry about it, I have to clean up shop before I leave. I enjoy the company.”
Once again my friend showed kindness. She was allowing me to stay after the bar was closed. It was a simple, yet wholesome gesture.
A few moments later, an old man poked his head out of the back office. He greeted me warmly and asked if I liked dogs. Naturally, I said yes. He opened the back door and two black labs zipped into the bar. They were thrilled to join our company, but secretly, I was still the happiest in the room.
Shortly afterward, I decided it was time to head home. I thanked my hosts for their hospitality, and ducked my head as I slipped out the front door. On my walk through the English countryside, I smiled, reflecting on my time at Hare and Hounds. I knew that was an experience I would remember for the rest of my life.
If you ever get the opportunity to travel to a foreign country, take it. When you’re abroad, pay special attention to the attitudes of locals. Appreciate the nuances in their mannerisms. Explore the cultural differences. Ask questions. Listen with intent. A simple interaction may be one you remember for the rest of your life.
