Not by Accident: Praising the Meal Maker -Episode 17

To take things for granted is human nature (especially from those we know the most).  To begin to expect things from others (becoming entitled) is likewise in our nature.  And both of those are ugly qualities that will harm and eventually kill relationships.  When is the last time you not only expressed gratitude for the person who makes your meals but heaped praise and compliments on them?  Mothers (sometimes fathers) will make you thousands of meals in your lifetime, will wash tons of clothes, drive you thousands of milles to places you want to go.  What is in it for them?  Usually a lot of complaints and attitude.... until they decide they don't want to do it any more and our lack of appreciation drives a wedge of resentment in the relationship.  But what if it was the opposite?  What if we returned every meal with genuine praise and, imagine this, some reciprocal gesture of care and affection (like cleaning up the kitchen or washing our own dishes without being asked)?   At minimum the meal maker would find motivation if not joy and pleasure in continuing to provide their service for an appreciative audience.