April 24 - Establishing a Routine

My African friend was off soon after we got together because he was also a delegation head and had to get to a meeting.

So I then started the routine I followed everyday when I came in. I went up to the message board at the information booth on the second level and checked for messages. I then went to Cokesbury where I picked up the first copy of the Daily Christian Advocate (DCA) and the printed version of the Advanced DCA volumes. I had not yet found an “office” so I went down to the first floor where newly arrived delegates and visitors were congregating. I spent time with two old friends and learned one was now on the staff of the General Conference Secretary. The other was there for the umpteenth General Conference as an advocate for Methodist Federation for Social Action.

“So you’re one of the hospitality staff,” he said, pointing at my red jacket.

“Naw, I just look like I am. The Florida greeters and helpers all wear a red vest. I’ve got sleeves.”

“Pass the word that they are as nice and helpful as the Texas bunch were four years ago,” he said.

I agreed. “They are characteristic of all the Methodists I’ve been meeting so far, from wherever in the world. They’re as nice as they can be.”

“Did you know that the food court over there has complimentary wifi?” my friend asked.

He had found my “office.” I was on-line in moments and found the chairs and tables a great place to be visible if anyone was looking for me.

That place also turned out to be where I met a lot of delegates and learned a lot about ministries and problems going on. Sharing a table led to many interesting conversations, passing of business cards, and establishing links for future contacts.

I had my entering routine: message board, Cokesbury for my DCA, elevator down to the first floor food court to check my email and meet others. Then I could head out to observe meetings or the plenary.

My leaving routine was similar. I checked out my email at the end of the day, checked the message board, and left for the day before it got too late for me to drive home safely.