Simple Kindness: #18

BE THE KIND OF GUEST YOU WOULD WANT TO HAVE IN YOUR HOME


An invitation is an honor. It means that someone who values our company is willing to plan for our arrival, prepare the house, cook for us, and think about our comfort. We need to appreciate the effort as well as the offer of hospitality. In return, we can arrive at our host's home ready to help create a good time. We can be friendly, interested in others, attentive to new people, courteous, willing to talk and share stories, and genuinely engaged in the proceedings. We need to do this for our own enjoyment and also for the sake of our hosts since they, like all of us, want to feel successful and appreciated.



REMINDERS

* Respond to an invitation promptly and kindly, whether or not you're accepting or if the event interests you.


* Don't put your host on the spot with requests for special treatment--"I only eat low-fat food"--or last minute favors--"Can we bring our daughter?"


* Come on time and with enthusiasm. Bring a small gift you've chosen with the hosts' taste or needs in mind.


* Offer to help, but be mindful not to get in your host's way.


* Show that you're enjoying yourself. Get involved in conversation, be positive, compliment the meal.


* If you don't like the food, music, or company, deal with it discretely. Don't say anything critical to your host.


* As you leave, be sincere in your thanks. Call the next day or write a quick note. Following up is a much appreciated kindness few guests take the time for.



SIMPLE KINDNESS=HOW TO BE KIND IN AN OFTEN RUDE WORLD