19th March
Yesterday, I popped over to my Aunt Margarets house to drop off some important paperwork. We only ever really see each other at Christmas, but this was a bit of an urgent matter. I have to say, shes not doing too well these days, but it isnt for lack of money or anything like that. Ive never considered myself penny-pinching; I just believe that keeping things clean and tidy should be a given. You can live simply, but its important to look after your home.
Her sitting room is packed with all sorts of things that just gather dust. Ornamental plates, an army of porcelain animals, even empty jam jars are stacked in towers everywhere you look. The bathroom smells musty, and theres a litter box for her old tabby, Jess, which she only bothers to clean out once a week. Rubbish is scattered right by the door, and the whole place carries a lingering whiff of stale food and something worse.
Margaret offered me some tea and something to eat, and started setting the table. As she laid out the cutlery, I couldnt help but notice the forks and knives had bits stuck on them. While she was serving up from the pot, I quietly pulled a packet of antibacterial wipes from my satchel and started giving the forks a good clean.
She clocked what I was doing. As I poked my food about on the plate, she asked,
Not hungry, or does it not take your fancy?
I wasnt sure what to say. Has anyone else ever found themselves in the same awkward position?
If anything, it made me realise how important it is to keep a home tidynot for show, but out of respect for yourself and your guests. Its not about being posh, its just basic decency.
