Graciousness and good manners are not often discussed these days.
However, I was recently reminded of how these qualities can enrich our lives.
A friend and her husband stayed at our home this past weekend while traveling through my area. We had been looking forward to spending time together.
But the hay crop had other plans.
Our first hay harvest had begun in earnest on the day they arrived.
We had a few hours to visit before I had to leave with my husband to bale hay through the night.
After getting a couple of hours of sleep, I headed out early to spend the morning raking hay.
Our friends were left to fend for themselves and see themselves off that morning.
I had told them there were eggs in the fridge and to help themselves to anything they wanted to eat.
When I returned later that morning, I found a note below my hastily written apology for not being a good host.
My friend had written that the best type of host is one who makes their guests feel at home!
What a gracious response to a weekend that did not turn out as planned.
My friend’s kind words reminded me of my mother’s teaching that good manners are less about a defined set of etiquette rules and more about making others feel comfortable.
This understanding can make our lives so much more enjoyable.
Graciousness and good manners are really just about serving and treating others with respect.
Our friends showed courtesy to us in our predicament, demonstrating kindness and understanding, and making the best of the situation.
That kindness is truly a blessing we can all offer.
May we all strive to be a little more gracious and kind in whatever situation we find ourselves.
Much love,
