A long-time friend recently invited me to breakfast at her house. We ate on her deck, sitting at a table strewn with fresh rose petals and lit with a candle and decorated with fine dishes and a flower.
I felt special, like an honored guest. We talked easily about all manner of topics, from family updates to culture and travel, from spirituality to human relationships. She is one of the most hospitable people I know — and hospitality, one of the most beautiful and basic of human arts, can be a rare gift.
Historically, most cultures greatly valued hospitality and considered the relationship between guest and host to be important. For example, many cultures felt that once you took a person into your home, you must offer them your protection and comfort through food and rest.
During various travels, I’ve had opportunities to encounter a plethora of hospitable people. I’ve been invited to lunch with strangers on the beach. Another time, I was given money from kind man who thought I might not have enough for lunch.
Once, I was even welcomed to spend the night with a family I’d just met.