How the Belk’s Greeter Inspired Classic Legacy

In my rush to prepare for market and drive to Atlanta I realized that I forgot to pack my black shoes.   I was driving and as I approached Birmingham, AL I knew that I needed to find a store to buy black shoes!    Summit Mall is a lovely open air shopping destination and seemed the perfect place to stop.    The Belk store is a large flagship anchor and it was my choice of stores to find black shoes.   

I rushed through the door not  noticing anything out of the ordinary but as I walked through the doors I heard a voice say “Welcome to Belk’s”.    I turned around and saw a very pleasant young woman in a wheel chair.   She had a computer strapped to  her chair and was able to welcome everyone as they entered.  I was delighted but rushed toward the shoe department to find the shoes that I needed.

I found the perfect stylish and yet comfortable shoes for business trip in Atlanta.   The clerk in the shoe department even opened up an account for me…..so I could save 15%!    I do love my new Donald J Pliner shoes!

On my way out I stopped and observed as more people entered Belk’s each time they were greeted by this thoughtful young lady.   I approached her as I left and said,   “I admire you and thank you for greeting me today.”    I also pulled out my telephone and showed her the photo of my Facebook and Twitter friend Glenda Watson Hyatt.  I first met Glenda at a blogging conference.     Glenda is an author and motivational speaker.   Resulting from a lack of oxygen at birth, Glenda has cerebral palsy, mostly affecting her muscle coordination, balance and speech. However, labeled as functionally nonverbal and using a wheelchair for mobility hasn’t prevented Glenda from living her life to the fullest.    It is my hope that Belinda, the Belk’s greeter,  will become connected with Glenda.   I think they have so much in common……they both seem to not let their disability stand in the way of living life to the fullest!

 I called Belk’s today and asked to speak to the manager.   I shared this story with  Susan Held and  she told me the greeter’s name was Belinda Dorough and she has been a LONG TIME greeter for Belk’s.    I admire the management of Belk’s for encouraging Belinda.   She is doing a great job.     I learned from this experience also.   I learned that although I had not planned on buying shoes or stopping in Birmingham that God had other plans for me.   I met Belinda who has inspired me to persevere and to take time to greet strangers.   I am going to market in Dallas in just a few days.   As I introduce Classic Legacy custom gifts and jewelry  I am  going to remember what I’ve learned from Belinda, the Belk’s Greeter in Birmingham, AL.