“Be safe.”

Today as I left the office, a nasty storm was brewing right outside the front doors. Several people were leaving at the same time and instead of the usual “have a good evening” pleasantries, there were lots of sincere and slightly anxious exchanges of “be safe.”

I thought about that expression during my drive home, trying to figure out why I was so moved by it.

I think I finally got it. It’s about presence. And intentionality. “Have a good evening” is a habit. A polite yet impersonal and effortless thing to say.

“Be safe” requires concern and awareness. It says “I see what’s happening around us, I know you’ll be exposed to it, I don’t want you to be harmed.” Or more simply put, “I care.”

I know it is said that words are cheap, but I don’t think I agree. Words are quite powerful. With presence and sincerity, our words can help us express genuine love of neighbor:

Can I help you with that? You’ve done a wonderful job with that. I thought you’d like this, I wanted to share. I picked up your paper for you. Be safe.

So many ways to tell someone that you see them, they matter and you care – without using the actual words. I love that.

As far as the photos, I thought some colorful blooms were a perfect counter to this stormy afternoon.