1. There will be someone you don’t really want to welcome walking through your door at least once every day. This is human – which is not to say you shrug your shoulders and ignore it. Acknowledge it, cut yourself some slack, and say hello.

2. Never kick someone out of your heart. But you can ask them to leave the space.

3. Self-forgiveness is non-negotiable. As a wise priest once told me, “You are not perfect, but you are divine.” You will make mistakes. Tomorrow is a new day.

4. Setting rules, boundaries, and limitations is not easy, especially when you see people in need. But remember, the people in need will benefit from the peace and well-being that is created in the space by the rules you established.

5. The power of your hospitality will not always be seen in the moment. A warm, heartfelt welcome is a gift that can be difficult for some to receive. Have faith. Keep showing up. Hospitality is, above all, a practice.

6. Everyone deserves beauty. Providing that for another is part of the practice.

7. Everyone likes to help. Never be totally ready for the party. Receiving gifts is part of hospitality, too.

Jenn Chinn is Program Manager for Charlotte’s Place. Since opening in March, Charlotte’s has welcomed parishioners, homeless, local families, students, and OWS protesters, practicing its “open to all and free to use” policy day by day.