You're Welcome to Stay

The party started and I wasn't ready yet. Now the guests have stayed for fifteen years and I'm done hosting. I need to tend to my garden and rest. I want to sit and read a book in a clean room with the sun streaming in and not a task in mind. Hosting is exhausting and it's fun and I invited these guests and I'm glad they're here but at this point I want them to feel at home, settle in, grab a snack, take a nap if they need to but don't ask me, don't check in and don't ask if it's okay.

I don't want to mediate or facilitate or introduce you to anyone else. Carry your conversations and your things, help yourself to the bathroom. The party doesn't have to end but I have other things I need to do. I can't learn a language and entertain you at the same time. My garden needs weeding and that's not a party activity.

You came and you stayed and you're welcome, the party can continue, but I need to step away. I want to step away. Can someone else host now? You can use my house, I like seeing you here; I'll check back a few times and join a conversation that draws me. But honestly, let's stop considering me the host, we'll level the playing field. I've had my time, I wouldn't mind the sidelines for a while. I can cheer from here, or I can leave, take a call, drive, eat, read, sleep, watch a different game.

I'm done hosting, but you're welcome to stay!

(If you enjoyed this, please read my other posts! I always welcome feedback and questions. Much love to you all.)

Lydia Beth Bracken