Hello

On the beauty of being first to reach out—and the friendships that follow.

“Is it a big deal to you if someone introduces themselves first?”
That’s what a new colleague asked after I mentioned he was one of the few in the office who made the first move to get to know me.

I answered simply:
“No… but it helps me categorize people.”

I didn’t go into detail. But honestly? Half of my brain wanted to say yes.

Because most of the friendships I’ve built started with me saying the first hello.

Those friendships were intentional.
I saw something in them—a potential connection, a shared vibe, a person I wanted to be around.
Even before working in Sales and Marketing (where qualifying people comes with the job), I was wired that way: to sense possibilities in people and act on them.

Some might see that as calculated.
I see it as a gift.
A quiet intuition that tells you when someone’s worth knowing.

Two “Hellos” That Became Lifelong Friends

Let me tell you about Beryl and Olan—two friends from college I met through intentional follow-ups.

I would see Beryl during lunch at the canteen, and I’d sit beside her whenever I had the chance. I also dropped by after her choir rehearsals just to say hi.
Over time, we grew comfortable enough to open up about our lives, and I remember us praying for each other’s concerns at a nearby park after class. That moment—simple but sacred—stayed with me.

It’s been over seven years since those days.
We don’t talk often, but we still check in when it counts.

Then there’s Olan.
At first, he seemed reserved—quiet, even unapproachable.
But our paths crossed often in the library and hallways. I eventually broke the ice by bringing up a mutual connection (his crush, to be specific—ha!).

Turns out, he had more to say than I expected.
And what I appreciated most was how direct he was.
He’d tell me when he disagreed with my opinions, and surprisingly, I welcomed it.
His honesty felt like encouragement—even when it stung a little.

These days, we only get to catch up maybe once or twice a year.
But I know he’s still someone I can reach out to—for advice, or for good company.

What Happens When You Say Hello First

I’m thankful I didn’t let hesitation win.
Because those little greetings became relationships I still hold dear.

But here’s a surprising thought:
Why don’t I remember anyone who reached out to me first?
Did I miss those who tried because I was too focused on the friendships I wanted to pursue?
Did I ever brush someone aside who might have become a great friend?

(Okay—suitors and stalkers don’t count.)

And now, as I reflect…
Yes, I think it matters more than I realized.

The Invitation

So here’s what I’ve learned:

If someone offers me friendship, I want to see it.
Value it.
Welcome it.

But if I have to be the one who says hello first,
I’ll still do it—gladly.

Because a single word can open the door to something lasting.
And maybe that small moment, that brave little greeting,
is all it takes to change two people’s lives.