Names are so powerful. I love learning their meanings, getting the pronunciation right, and seeing someone light up when they realize you remembered. If I have a fantastic waiter or a meaningful interaction with a Delta employee, I always jot down their name in my daily gratitude list because you never know when you might cross paths again.

A few weeks ago, the neighborhood handyman came into my home. I said, “Hi! I’m new here. I’m Rayna.” Without much enthusiasm, he replied, “I know.”

While he started working on the repairs, I brought him a glass of ice water. After he finished, I asked, “What’s your name?” He said, “Luc.” Immediately, I asked, “Are you Haitian?” His whole demeanor changed. He smiled big and nodded yes.

I told him I had another Haitian friend named Luc in New York City and showed him Luc’s viral videos. I laughed and told him he was officially the second Haitian Luc in my phone.

This past week, there was an unexpected knock at my door. I was home alone, and it was an odd time of day. I opened the door, and there was Luc. “Luc, it’s you!” I said with a smile. He beamed and said, “You remembered!” “Of course I did,” I replied, and invited him inside. He got to work again, and I brought him a glass of water.

As he finished up, Luc asked what I do for a living. I told him I write children’s books and speak in schools. When he asked to see one, I pulled out The Girl Who Said Hello to Everyone and flipped to the page featuring my old maintenance man, Roro. I told him that Roro inspired me to use the phrase “my friend” often and even though I hadn’t seen him in years, he left a lasting impact. Then I laughed and said, “Be careful around me, you might end up in a standup comedy routine or a kids’ book!”

Before Luc left, I asked where his cup went. “I already finished it,” he said. So I refilled it with more ice and water and told him he was always welcome to knock if he ever needed a drink. Florida in the summer is no joke!!

Life moves through seasons, and time and time again I’m reminded how meaningful small conversations can be. They can bring so much light to an ordinary or even difficult day. Wherever you are in the world, whether your life feels dark or full of light, never forget: you’re just a HELLO away from new friends, unexpected joy, and beautiful moments of connection.

Take the time to remember names and pronounce them correctly. It goes a long way.

Most importantly, be nice to your service workers, because truly, on that day, we both walked away with our cups full.

When One Grows, We All Grow.

I love you all.