Our relatives came to visit and brought us gifts. Before long, though, they started hinting that we should serve them what theyd brought.
One day, our relatives announced theyd be coming to see us. Wed told them beforehand that things were a bit tightlife wasnt easy for us at the moment.
Were not starving, but we do live simply. Im a pensioner, and my sons job doesnt pay much, so we cant really afford to have guests. Still, they didnt turn up empty-handedthey arrived with all sorts of food and presents.
My son thanked them for the gifts, and we quietly put everything away. Just as Id said, wed let them know resources were scarce. When lunchtime came round, we served bread and butter, some biscuits, and a pot of tea. Our relatives sat there with rather sour expressions, but kept quiet. I honestly didnt mind, since Id warned them about our situation. We just eat what we have.
For supper, we had a light soup, bread, some soft cheese, cold meat sandwiches, and more tea. I suspect they were expecting something more elaborate, as they looked quite put out.
Then one of our relatives finally asked why we hadnt served them the food they brought. I was a bit puzzled by thiswere those meant as gifts for us, or had they only brought treats for themselves? If it was meant for them, they could have just asked us to pop it all in the fridge.
There was quite a row about the whole affair, and the next morning, they packed up and left. Frankly, I wasnt bothered where they stayed nextI dont want that sort of tension in my home. At least we were left with some nice things: some cake, pâté, meringues, and fruitsomething useful came out of it in the end. That evening, my son and I settled down with a cuppa and a lovely slice of cake.
Sometimes, others expectations arent as important as the peace we have in our own home, and being content with what weve got is more valuable than trying to please everyone who comes through your door.
