Old age means friends and family living away only visit occasionally. When they do we pull out the stops providing hospitality re-payed with great conversations and board games. Recently one of these, in their mid twenties arrived for five days. They had changed to become confident but dismissive, only speaking when it suited them and answering questions if they considered it worth while. We payed for all their travel and entertainment costs, not expecting or receiving any help with household chores. They left without thanking us. I know the age difference made us geriatric farts but it was hurtful. Is it just a sign of the times? Has anyone had the same experience?
Was the relationship in the past cool and indifferent to begin with? Maybe your expectations were to high, but since you payed to have them they should have done better.
Were these friends or family? If "friends," I wouldn't bother with inviting them to stay again. If family, then I'd speak up and let them know I was not happy with their behavior. Seems like manners and common decency are in short supply these days, but my children and grandchildren have been raised to show respect. Sorry your feelings are hurt, Jim, but I feel like this is a sign of the times.
The person was disciplined and raised to be respectful but they are now professional with a very astute boyfriend. I feel that they take heed of a previous British prime ministers advice that society has to be sacrificed to individual endeavour. Sad but as you say, Beth, dog eat dog is a sign of the times.Saying thank you is an unnecessary weakness.
Jim, I suppose that we are now experiencing the feelings experienced by all the older generations that went before us. Society changes and we see our "old familiar ways" being discarded for the new. It has always been this way but we are only now beginning to experience the sting of it, having become the "old folks." I will admit that when I was in my 20's, I didn't give a lot of thought to my grandparents or what they thought of my actions. Though as I recall I was always respectful of them, they were relegated to "old people" in my limited life experience.
I truly feel that Boomers, and before, have more respect. There are those young folks that know the person inviting them has much more money than they do, so they will take advantage of that. Not to say "thank you for everything"...……..they would definitely go on my "****" list!
Truly, very hurtful. I guess, our age place certainly shows much more life lessons, like respect, family and friend devotion. Seems like in so many times, there's a string attached with some of those who may spend time with us, but for their own gains. Appreciation does seem to get lost among our younger generation, maybe not all, but some are certainly there.
@Jim Nash ....I think a few months from now a trip to their place is in order. Perhaps you can show them what it's like to be invaded and used . Or I guess you could go and be Saints by behaving well like a real guest. But I like the first choice better
@Jim Nash Three years ago, my youngest son forgot to even text me for Christmas OR my birthday. I sent him a letter on some fake lawyer stationary I made on my computer stating (in legal terms) that he had been removed from being the beneficiary on my $100,000 life insurance policy. I later told him non of that was true, but he hasn't forgotten me since.....just in case. I'm sorry you had to go through having your feelings hurt, especially from people you care about.
@Jim Nash. These people dont seem to be able to grasp the fact that they too will be old one day. It takes nothing to be civil at least friendly and respectful at best. Surely creating a good impression as guests in someone else's home has to be of primary importance. Simple Jim dont ever invite them again.. they may then get the clue that they acted inappropriately and apologize.