“Do not worry. Have a look at what is available, and if it’s not there, tell me. I will do my best to get it for you”.
This is how Joe Mercieca greeted me during my very first encounter with him. I had been given his name by my mentor at work as a contact person at the United States Embassy offices in Floriana. “He will surely assist in providing you with information and assistance relevant to the project that you are managing,’ I was assured.
Just a telephone call away and not knowing who I was, Joe was immediately there at my disposal.
“Of course” he said, giving me an appointment immediately.
“Very prompt and efficient” I said to myself. On the established day, there he was, standing upright near the Security Guard in the foyer. He immediately greeted me using my first name. It felt as if he had known me for ages. I can still recall and cherish his fatherly and welcoming presence. “It’s on” I said to myself. “He really knows how to make one feel greeted and at home”.
“Come on, we have a lot of educational material available and I will show you a list of educational tools which will meet your requirements,” he told me.
What if what I was after was not immediately available? Joe immediately had a solution. “Ask your boss to make a request in writing and I will present a case to have it specifically ordered”, he said. “Cheer up Carm, you will have it very soon.”
Very true to his word I was making use of educational videos and presentations at my place of work just as he had promised.
“This is for the Human Resources department library. Make sure that you make these available to everyone,” he said before I departed.
He handed me a number of books so topical to what I had been after. Having thanked him, I was on my way out but Joe was not finished yet. He produced another packet. “This is for your personal use,” he said. “Keep it at home. It will help to enhance your DP knowledge”.
Very sadly, Joe, it is only now that I realise how lucky I was to have had the opportunity to meet you. I am proud to have followed your writings and career appointments with joy and admiration. It’s the least I could do to repay your kindness.
I will always treasure my recollections of my meeting you. Thank you. How I wish to have met many more Joes like you!
My sincere condolences go to your beloved family.

Carm Vassallo
Sliema