The people at Chick-Fil-A could learn a lot by watching the staff members at Pursell Farms, and we all know how polite the folks at Chick-Fil-A are. Yes, it was our experience that the people at Pursell Farms took guest services to the highest level we’ve ever witnessed.
We were greeted at the gate by a guard who called us by name without ever asking who we were. He telephoned ahead to the inn. When we arrived, someone was waiting out front with words of welcome and offers to help with bags. The receptionist at the desk checked us in cheerfully and with a big smile. She answered all our questions and pointed us toward the afternoon refreshment area with snacks and fruit-infused water, tea and coffee. Five minutes after we got to our room, a treat tray arrived with homemade candies and fresh fruit.
The servers in the restaurants were friendly and attentive. The girl who freshened our room each day said more “Yes, ma’ams” than I’ve heard in months. The doorman/greeter “talked fishing” with Steve. Others at the desk gave accurate directions with helpful hints thrown in free of charge. Every single person, when I asked my Connie-style 20 questions, said that they felt fortunate to work there and seemed to genuinely enjoy their coworkers, as well as all the guests. A particularly helpful lady named Marie went out of her way to be sure I was able to contact the chef for an interview. They all took apparent pride in their roles at Pursell Farms, and the gleaming, tasteful furnishings and immaculate landscaping revealed that the pride extended beyond the walls of the buildings.
What a refreshing three days we spent. It was almost guaranteed by the attitudes of the people surrounding us. They put their needs aside and concentrated on ours.
I have no doubt in my mind that the first clue to all of this niceness also greeted us inside the gate. The first welcome sign included a Bible verse giving glory to God.
On the desk in our room was a paperback biography of Jimmy Pursell, who I learned is a strong Christian. His financial success has resulted in generous giving and strong support for VAPOR Ministries whose stated mission is: “to establish sustainable centers for alleviating poverty and multiplying disciples in third-world environments.” Check out the website here. While we were in this luxurious resort, we were also being gently reminded of those less fortunate.
When is the last time you were in a restaurant, a hotel, a business, or an attraction where you were surrounded by kindness? Is there any doubt that the founder of Pursell Farms has created a culture of Christlikeness in the behavior and actions of his staff stemming from his own beliefs and commitment to his Savior?
Being a Christian (especially when one Christian joins with many other Christians) is supposed to result in a kinder, others-focused environment. Don’t you agree?
Then, doesn’t it stand to reason that our churches should be the kindest and most others-focused place of all? Think about it.
Like their sign says, “Great are the works of the Lord. He has made His works to be remembered.” Psalm 111:2, 4
Colossians 3:12 – “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”