My daughter recently got married. Her husband is a decent, hardworking man. His family seems respectable. His mother is modest, working as a nurse at the local clinic, and he earns a good salary. Their home is well-kept and they lack for nothing.
In addition to my son-in-law, his family has younger children. Since the wedding, they havent visited us here in the countryside, though weve been to their place several timesfor birthdays and to celebrate New Years Eve.
We live in a rural area just outside the city, with our own house and garden. Recently, my in-laws said theyd like to bring their children for a visit. The idea was to get to know each other better while the kids enjoyed some fresh air. To be honest, we werent thrilled, since its the middle of the gardening season and theres plenty to do. But we couldnt really say no.
We gave them a room of their own. The next morning, I was rushed off my feet in the kitchen. They all had hearty appetites, especially their children, who ate a lot. My son’s mother-in-law was quiet and modest, but she never offered to help. She just sat reading her magazine the whole time. Their kids picked every single apple from my trees; it would have been fine if they had actually eaten them, but instead theyd take a bite, toss the rest aside, and climb back up for more.
I soon learned that my son-in-laws father enjoys his drink.
Frankly, I hope they wont visit again in the near future. By the way, after they left, my husband noticed several tools missing from his workshop. A few kitchen items had disappeared as well.
I find it hard to believe, yet there was no one else who could possibly have taken those things.
If they decide to come again, Ill make up some excuse to avoid hosting them.
All this has taught me that hospitality must be balanced with respectif guests dont treat your home and kindness with courtesy, its reasonable to reconsider who you welcome into your life.
