The introduction

I was away from home this past Shabbos and walked into the shul where my sister-in-law and brother daven. I was early, didn't see any familiar faces and sat down at the end of a row of seats. A woman approached, sat down next to me and introduced herself. I must admit that her friendly demeanor put a smile on my face and made the difference between feeling excluded and being part of the congregation. As a recipient of a friendly gesture, I realized the importance of making a new face feel welcome. Hope you remember to welcome the stranger into your midst.