How do you explain what hospitality means to your child? As a child, numerous visitors would ‘drop in’ for a cuppa (cup of tea, coffee or just a chat).

Consequently, I loved it, as it was always a pleasant surprise.

Additionally, these friends of my parents often also had children with whom we could play, which was exciting.

Understanding what hospitality means was primarily done through observation and instructions on greeting people, saying please and thank you and sharing.

Mum always ensured that we kids shared our toys and said hello to the grown-ups before we headed to our rooms or outside to play.

We learned to share our toys and take turns with whatever toy was popular, such as a bike. Sometimes, it meant an assertive voice from a parent to ensure this was happening.

There were always tins of baked goods. Due to having goodies available in case visitors dropped in and because I am part of a large family.

Acknowledging all our visitors was crucial to greeting them, as it was a sign of respect, courtesy and friendliness.

Friends dropping by unexpectedly only happens sometimes these days. Usually, people wait for an invitation or phone ahead to check that it’s OK. 

Hospitality is a word primarily related to the industry. Technology has had an impact here.

When I was young, only some households had a telephone, so there was no phoning ahead to check to see if someone was even home. 

It was a matter of going for a ‘Sunday drive’ if people were home and available for visitors, then it was a bonus.

Whether in a home or a business, hospitality is about making them feel welcome and showing you care by treating them with respect.

It’s about connection and sharing.

In today’s world, people are more connected to their electronic devices than other people, including family and friends.

Do you remember who you connected with recently and when? I don’t mean catching up with someone you often speak to or see. I mean genuinely connecting with someone.

Recently, I did a few chores around my home before sitting at my laptop. I was looking forward to achieving a few tasks I wanted to complete.

Thankfully, the first thing I looked at on my laptop was my calendar.

Suddenly I realised I had to be at a friend’s for lunch in 20 minutes.

Pleased that I had showered, dressed and washed my hair I realised I could get up and go.

There was a sense of disappointment that I wasn’t going to complete my tasks though.

Regretfully I poured the hot cup of tea I had just made down the sink.

However, I was thrilled to see my friends once I arrived at their home. Additionally, I saw long lost friend and meet new friends.

We had a lovely time together and had a beautiful lunch on their outside patio overlooking their land. The company was terrific.

Everybody was enjoying themselves. We walked around my friend’s property after lunch and then indulged ourselves by sitting around talking and having afternoon tea.

I finally left feeling so happy with the time spent with friends and a commitment to bring more balance into my life by enjoying the company of friends more than I already do.

That reminds me that I must send an SMS to thank them again. It’s always lovely to hear from people who have been guests in your home and truly enjoyed the experience.