"I'm Proud of You"

I’ve always believed the smaller things make the biggest difference: saving a seat for someone at the table, telling someone their outfit looks good that day, or sharing notes from a class a peer missed. 

At Hospitality House of Northwest North Carolina, this philosophy rings true. Taking the time to ask a client how their day was, making sure their meal is nutritious, and passing on a smile and a wave as staff walk through the hallways — all of these small actions make Hospitality House what it is: a home for many who deserve one.

During my summer internship at Hospitality House, I had the opportunity to be involved in marketing campaigns, help with photography and videography for the annual Hope Luncheon and Auction and the High Country Turkey Trot, and so much more. My favorite moments, though, were with the people. Being able to help with both menial and monumental tasks gave me a feeling that I cannot describe, and I felt nothing but appreciated by all staff and clients, whether it was something as small as moving tables to-and-from the lobby for meetings or something as big as working on my intern project: a client testimonial collection. 

Interviewing people is one of my strengths, and through my classes at Appalachian State University I have perfected the art of curating questions and transcribing audio recordings, but knowing how to listen is much more innate, much more intimate, of a process than a lecture could ever prepare you for. With Hospitality House, I had the opportunity to listen — truly listen — to clients’ stories. I found myself saying to them, once they had shared the most raw experiences of their lives, “I’m proud of you.” Their reactions, perhaps shy but overwhelmed in gratitude, made my heart swell. I can only hope that their experience speaking with me gave them as much confidence in themselves as I have in them. 

The homeless population is one of the most chronically underrepresented groups in America, and with a system against them it is almost impossible to feel a sense of hope, a sense of belonging. I am proud of the Hospitality House staff for creating a space where existing is a right, hope is a purpose and believing is a strength. I am proud of my fellow interns for taking on this organization with empathy in their hearts. I am proud of the clients, who have been through unimaginable struggle but shown up with smiles on their faces and conversations to be had. 

Remember to remind those you love that you are proud of them — whether they are your family or those who had to find one.

A photo of me attending other interns' events, where we did a yoga flow, nature walk and reflected on our experiences with nature.