Welcome to the Club

I was watching a documentary on the Medal of Honor and one of those decorated in Vietnam told of those decorated were invited to President Nixon's first inauguration.  The man, whose medal was still new to him, didn't know what to do.  Another recipient took him in hand and shoved him into a limousine.  He found himself between two older gentlemen. 

One said, "I'm Jimmy Doolitte and this is Eddie Rickenbacker."  He was riding to the inauguration with the man who led the bombing raid on Tokyo and America's leading ace in World War I.  Sticking out his hand, Doolitte said, "Welcome to the club."

Harry Carey, Jr. has long been a recognizable character actor.  His father, Harry, Sr, was a much-loved star of the Western.  Upon returning from his service in World War II, Jr. was unsure as to what he wanted to do for a living, but had no intention of going into movies.  He was offered a one-day job in a 'B' Western, and it was easy money, so he agreed.  That night, he was tending bar at a party his parents were giving.  Fredric March, a star of Broadway and Hollywood, not to mention a longtime idol of Jr.'s., approached. 



Fredric March in Les Miserables

"I understand you made your first film today."

"Yes sir."

March then stuck out his hand.  "Welcome to the motion picture business."

Now more than likely, neither Doolittle nor March remembered their actions five minutes later.  But those they showed kindness to never forgot them, for the simple reason that they had been informed, 'You're one of us now.'  And to be told that by men such as Jimmy Doolitte and Fredric March is beyond description.

Really, that is all it takes . . a simple welcome to let a person know that 'you're one of us, you're one of the club,' and it is amazing how it can break the ice. Silence breaks.  A wallflower can be the life of the party.  Friendships start.  One never knows what will happen.

Each and every one of us is in some kind of club.  We may not realize it, but we are, due to our likes, dislikes, et al.  We may not pay dues, hold meetings, but there are various types of clubs, and there is always a person waiting to be welcomed in.  Pull a Jimmy Doolitte/Fredic March and let them know they're not alone.

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