Legend has it that once there a business school case study on Waffle House, where a professor asked his class to come up with the answer to this question. What is the single, most important reason the popular breakfast chain is so successful? Responses from students ranged from specific menu items to positioning of the restaurants in prime locations. The winning response? Big windows.

Here’s the theory: The large windows across the front of every Waffle House provide a clear view of what’s going on inside. This transparency draws people in because they see something that is appealing to them. They see the genuine experience other diners are having. There is no opportunity for false advertising or deception. They can relate and connect with the diners inside. I can smell the coffee right now!

The innkeeper from my writing retreat told me this story over breakfast last Sunday. I haven’t been able to find evidence of the study online just yet, so I can’t say for sure I have the facts right.  But that’s not mission critical for this post, I don’t think.  

We are called to be genuine and transparent.  Being real, open and vulnerable brings us closer to worshiping and closer to witnessing than anything else can. It can help us get closer to God and experience closer community with those around us. And, it can be a powerful way to connect with those who are seeking God.

The next time you drive by a Waffle House, or settle in for a nice hot breakfast,  ask yourself: How big are my windows?