The first time I was here (by myself in 2019), my taxi driver in Athens was so excited to find out that I was traveling to Olympia the next day. He said that he was from Olympia and that I should go to the cafe right by the museum and let them know that Giorgos had sent me to say hello and that they would take care of me. In some places this would have been a prank, but he was so earnest and insistent, that I did indeed (diffidently) stop by the cafe the next day.
When I told the barkeep that Giorgos had sent me, he stopped what he was doing, and announced it to the whole cafe, and then everyone proceeded to cheer and drink to my health. The more I think about this, the more likely it seems that they may not have known who Giorgos was (and it's just George in Greek, so such a popular name too), but did not want me to feel stupid.
Today when I wandered off to find a cash machine (as the monasteries in Meteora don't accept cards), the woman whose shop the ATM was at, made such a fuss of me. "I am lucky to wake up and meet you today," she said after she gave me a small bag of cherries to share with Big A and Nu.
Hospitality and unlooked for kindness every where I see here.
I think often also of that 2018 Joanna Kakissis story on NPR where she talked about how her Greek family in Lesbos was trying to help Syrian and other refugees coming in across the Mediterranean as "the rest of the E.U. won't take them."
Ancient Greek history has so much war, but all that's left now is the legendary Greek hospitality.
Pic: I'm up on a ledge, with an Omen-like sunbeam slicing me. But then, I have monasteries perched to my right and left. #Greece
8 comments:
Of course you have nice encounters. You are a beautiful woman with a fantastic smile and wonderfully open and welcoming presence. I truly believe that when we smile and mean it, doors open wide!
What a beautiful thing that shopkeeper said to you! It encompasses so many positive things. I'm glad that you are feeling cared for and rejuvenated somewhat in Greece.
I remember those stories about Greece, too, and how welcoming they were to refugees (at least back then, not sure of the current situation) despite being a poor country.
One of my most darling friends spends a lot of time in Greece, and this is exactly why. The amazing people.
Thanks, Jeanie. I think we have twin philosophies!
Right? A chance exchange elevated to meaningful encounter!
I haven't checked the current climate or situation either... There was SO MUCH Anti-Israel graffiti though, so it would seem they're still somewhat in the same place.
Lucky friend! India is also magnificently hospitable + has my people. But if there wasn't that, I'd head to Greece every chance I got.
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