The Christian EducatorA publication of North Valley Baptist Schools

A Lion from the Heart

by Dan Azzarello

As bedtime approached for my three-year old daughter, I noticed that she had a different stuffed animal - a lion to be specific- that she was taking with her to bed. I asked her the lion’s name, and she responded “John McCain.” She had just heard the Senator’s name and thought it would be a good name for her stuffed friend. I took a closer look at the little lion and remembered exactly who gave her the toy. My wife was working at a real estate office when she was expecting our first. She had been making plans for a calendar-planning event for the company at The Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay. In the process of working out the details with the Meeting and Special Events Coordinator, my wife mentioned that she would be unable to attend because it was too close to her due date. One week later, my wife received a gift basket from the Ritz Carlton with several gifts for the baby and a stuffed lion. It also included a card signed by over a dozen employees, including the manager, wishing us the best on the arrival of our daughter. Their thoughtfulness blew us away. Caring acts like this give them the reputation for unmatched customer service.

When was the last time you or your school did something that “made the day” for someone? Our focus on the routine of the day often overshadows the people that we are there to service. Whether it is parents, students, or people in the community, find a way to go beyond the call of duty. Look for ways to be thoughtful and caring. Customer service in the education business will go a long way. This is how you form lasting relationships. Real academic success comes when you are able to connect with your parents and students on a personal level. When you are at school, do your best to be present for your students and parents. Leave your personal problems at home and serve your students and your parents. What can you do for someone else today?

You never know how far a little kindness will go. Three years later, the gift from The Ritz Carlton still holds a place in our hearts.

About the Author: Dan Azzarello has been the principal at North Valley since 2003. He graduated from Golden State Baptist College with a degree in secondary education. He is the athletic director and Bible instructor in the high school. He and his wife, Genny, have been married since 2001. They have three beautiful children, Brooklynn, Dominic, and Jaclynn.