My friends, Edward and Elizabeth, live near the seaside. Last summer, the pair attended a christening where Edward had the honour of being the godfather. After the church service, as is customary, there was a lively reception. There, they met Edwards godsons grandparents. All through the evening, the grandparents couldnt contain their excitement that their grandson had such a distinguished godfather. In their eyes, Edward was a truly wonderful man, and they were absolutely thrilled to be connected to him.
What delighted them most was that Elizabeth and her husband lived by the English coast.
What a splendid godfather! the grandmother exclaimed, positively beaming. And as a bonus, he lives by the sea! How marvellous! Now we have someone to visit close to the water. No more need for holiday rentals. Family is such a blessing. Isnt it wonderful, Edward? How fortunate we are to be related to you!
No one would have predicted just how true to their word the godsons grandmother would be. A few weeks later, she arrived. Edward had been contacted beforehand by the godsons father, Charles, who politely asked if his parents could stay for three or four days. After some domestic debate, Elizabeth and her husband agreed to host them. To refuse would have felt unkind. Still, it was peak season, and both Edward and Elizabeth worked long hoursit was hardly convenient for entertaining guests. Elizabeth even arranged to take time off work so she could look after them properly.
They arrived, stayed for a while, soaked up the sun on the local beach, and eventually packed their bags and departed with grateful smiles.
Given their snug two-bedroom flat, Elizabeth quietly resolved to say no next time if the family decided to bring happiness with another impromptu visit. Shed always welcomed her friends and godsonthose visits were a pleasure. But her friends parents were a different matter, especially in the busy summer months, when saving up a bit of money was crucial to see them through the next winter.
After hearing about all of this, one thing kept bothering me. These parents of my friends were already well into their sixties, their children and grandchildren grown. What was this about? Had they decided to take advantageexploiting family ties for a free seaside bed and breakfast?
I rather think soand they even promised theyd be back…
