Our relatives came over to visit us and brought gifts along with them. And, soon enough, they asked if we could set their gifts out on the table.
One day, our relatives arrived for a visit. Of course, theyd let us know beforehand, and Id made it very clear that we were struggling financially and could barely make ends meet.
Not that were starving, but we live simply. Im retired and my son doesnt earn a lot either, so throwing gatherings really isnt something we can afford. Still, they visited, and at least they didnt come empty-handedthey brought a generous amount of food and presents.
My son thanked them politely for the gifts, and I quickly put everything away. Like I said, Id already told them about our situation. For lunch, we had bread and butter, some biscuits, and a pot of tea. Our relatives ate in silence, their faces slightly sour, but they didnt say a word. I honestly didnt mind, since Id warned them there wouldnt be much to go around. We live as best we can. I served what we had.
For dinner, we made do with a simple soup, bread, spreadable cheese, some cold meat sandwiches, and more tea. Im sure theyd expected something much grander, and it showed on their disappointed faces.
Then, one of them asked why we hadnt put out the things theyd brought. I listened, but I couldnt quite grasp their pointwere their gifts meant for us, or for themselves? If the food they brought was intended for everyone, they couldve asked us to put it in the fridge.
We had a bit of a row about it, and the next day they packed their bags and left. Truthfully, I couldnt care less where they ended up spending the night. I dont want people like that in my home. At least we were left with some bits and bobs: a nice cake, some pâté, meringues, and fruitsomething good to come out of the visit. Tonight, my son and I will have a proper cup of tea and share a slice of delicious cake.
