Xenial Living

 

Xenial Living

 

In today’s world, fraught with negativity, bad blood, and bloodshed and where technology overshadows genuine connections and relationships, we could do well by adopting a Xenial way of life.

The word xenial is derived from the ancient Greek words xenos, meaning stranger or guest, and xenia, meaning hospitality.

Xenial living is therefore a personal philosophy or a culture of openness, friendliness and mutual respect. Besides celebrating the bond between host and guest, xenial living also applies largely to how we interact with our community. 

In a nutshell, Xenial living is about opening up our homes to friends and strangers (a little cautious with strangers) and creating physical and emotional spaces where people are seen, valued, and welcomed.

It’s not about extravagant dinners or picture-perfect homes but about rustling up a meal even from leftovers for unexpected guests, inviting them to stay in our slightly messy home, and just being hospitable.

 

Why Must We Embrace the Xenial Way Of Life?

 

·       Fosters Community:

Being kind and hospitable deepens bonds, promotes trust and strengthens relationships.

 

·       The Ripple effect

Acts of kindness and generosity can create the ripple effect, where your kindness and generosity can inspire the receiver to do the same for another. 

 

·       Makes the world a better place

Kindness, generosity, friendliness, and compassion create a more beautiful world.

 

 

 Practising The Xenial way of life:

 

·       Be warm and friendly:

Make others feel valued with small gestures—remembering names, offering a seat or a ride, pulling out a chair, or simply smiling.

 

·       Create spaces for connection

Organize get–togethers, meals, or virtual meet-ups which bring people together and deepen bonds and connections.

 

·       Be Present

Listen to people. Let them feel heard and understood.

 

·       Offer support

Check in on a friend, a senior citizen, or a sick neighbour.

 

·       Practise inclusivity

Appreciate different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. There is unity and beauty in diversity.

 

What’s one Xenial gesture that you can make to brighten someone’s day? 

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