The Gift of Generous Receiving

Many people find it hard to be on the receiving end. Being a giver makes them feel strong, whereas being a receiver makes them feel weak. “No, you sit down, I’m serving, you’re the guest!” says a well-meaning hostess. She thinks she’s allowing her guest to have a bit of luxurious rest.

Sometimes she’s correct. There are some guests who truly enjoy sitting back and chatting with others while a hostess runs back and forth from the kitchen, bringing platters in, clearing others away.

However, there are some guests who are uncomfortable watching a woman run herself ragged while everyone else acts like they’re at a good restaurant. “I want to help out,” says Chani. “I know what it’s like to be the only one serving, missing out on all the good conversation and being the last one to eat. I really want to ease the burden for my friends and relatives who are kind enough to invite me and my family for a meal. And it really bothers me when they refuse to let me help!”

She’s complaining about not being allowed to ease someone else’s burden. She wants the opportunity to experience the pleasure of helping another person. When someone denies her that opportunity, she feels stifled rather than relieved.