In a time when we often find ourselves divided instead of united,

Be reminded, there is only one force that overcomes fear and hate,

LOVE makes US great!

Welcome to the sixth month of LOVE makes US great! This blog will follow a monthly formula.  Second week – bringing more love to family and friends.  Let’s start loving.

Failte (pronounced fall-cha)

How appropriate that I learned the meaning of this Gaelic word while staying in the home of a friend of a friend. Shortly before leaving after a three-night stay, I read a little card that explained the sign with this greeting that you see when entering their home.

“Failte is the Gaelic word for welcome, and is synonymous with a culture that greets every visitor to a Scottish home. … In practical terms it ensured that anyone traveling the wild, sparsely populated countryside of the Highlands could find safe shelter wherever they were in the knowledge that their host was not an enemy. Over time this tradition became entrenched in the highland way of life."

For many, it might seem strange to stay in the home of someone you've never met. I knew that my friend would only have invited me to join her there because she knew their hospitality and openness. 

I entered on Saturday as a stranger and left on Tuesday as a friend. My hosts were gracious, generous, and kind. I hope to extend the same Failte to all visitors to my home. Now, I know that I have a DNA and cultural obligation to do so. I’m good with that.

Failte is love in action. It’s more than offering a warm bed. It’s about the smile and tone that conveys our home is your home. 

What are your practices to be a welcoming, loving host?

Love requires participation. Love requires sharing. Love requires action. Love requires commitment. 

For folks who share your experience, I'll send you a LOVEMUG sticker and magnet.

With gratitude,

Joyce Aiko

(yes, love really is my middle name)