An elderly couple locked their car keys inside their vehicle at the curb, only to discover the car had been moved. Arnold called police, helped manage communication, and personally accompanied the wife to check in for her flight while her husband worked with officers.
By Susan Mathews, Brand and Digital Content Manager, Travelers Aid International
Greetings and goodbyes once felt ceremonial—moments to affirm presence and care. A hug, a handshake, an eager rush to the door. Today, hellos are often casual nods, and goodbyes shouted from a distance, as if they’re afterthoughts.
Perhaps this change comes from comfort, constant digital check-ins, or sheer busyness. But something is lost when we stop marking these small but powerful exchanges.
When I was young, the happiest part of my day was dropping everything to greet my parents at the door. That joyful celebration of presence feels rare now.
What if we reclaimed the intentionality of a heartfelt hello or goodbye? What if we made eye contact, paused, and truly acknowledged each other?
At Travelers Aid International, we see the impact of greetings and farewells every day. Our volunteers and staff witness poignant reunions and tearful departures. A simple “Welcome” or “Safe travels” can ease stress and carry enormous weight.
The lesson is simple: technology can connect, but it should never replace the human rituals that say, “I see you, and I’m glad you’re here.”
A boy accidentally exited the secure area without his boarding pass. Teri paged his parents, contacted the gate, and personally rushed to alert the airline. Thanks to her persistence, the boy was reunited with his father just in time to make their flight.
Supporting others is meaningful—but it can also be emotionally taxing.
Over time, caregivers and frontline staff can experience compassion fatigue—feelings of exhaustion, detachment and burnout that make it harder to connect and care.
Join Travelers Aid International for a live virtual session with Brooksi Bottari, a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), U.S. Army veteran, certified trauma professional and educator who specializes in helping caregivers and teams stay resilient while doing difficult work.
