A Lesson Learned From My Mother-In-Law

     At the time, I didn't realize this was even a "lesson" or that it would be one of the most important things that I learned. 

And Who'd a Thought It Would Be From "a" Mother-In-Law!

(P.S. I Love My In-Laws, especially my MIL)

     The very first time I met my in-laws was when I went to California for my sister-in-law's wedding.  At the time, I had only been dating my husband for 3 months.

     When we got back to my MIL's home, many family members were there, buzzing around comfortably, helping get food ready, chatting, and feeling very comfortable in her home.

Out of the blue, my MIL asked me to sort through her mail that was on the side table.

I thought this was an odd request; I mean, mail is a personal thing, isn't it?  (That's my puritanical East Coast thinking)but I did  it anyway; who was I to object?

     I can't remember who I asked, but the answer to my question of "Why did she ask me to sort her mail?"  was:  "Because she wanted to give me something to do (anything!), so I would feel like I belonged" - 

courtesy of http://markwestman.blogspot.com/2010/05/belonging.html

          I later learned from a business group, they not only had a Pres, VP, Treas, and Sec., they had a greeter, a time keeper, and a few other "jobs" depending on how big the group was.  For the same reason, when you get people involved, they feel like they belong. 

So it amazes me today, that certain groups/organizations don't use this simple

concept in their group, especially 

if they're looking to add members.  It makes for a pleasant experience for everyone.

     So, during your Thanksgiving Celebration this week, make sure you ask your guests to "help" you.  It not only lightens your load, but it helps people feel like they belong at your home.