Asking Eric: Thanksgiving Guest's Excessive Food Take-Home

Dec 17, 2024 at 5:03 AM
Dear readers, here's a situation that has sparked some debate. For decades, a certain individual has been sharing Thanksgiving with dear friends. About three years ago, a friend with whom they were acquainted and had no Thanksgiving plans was invited and now attends annually. These kind and generous friends offer their guests the chance to take home doggie bags. However, one particular friend is always the first in line and often takes enough food for two to three people, regardless of the remaining amount and the number of people present. She then freezes the bounty as she will be away during the actual Thanksgiving weekend (her family celebrates a week later). Her hosting friends are too nice to say anything, and she is financially stable, not lacking for her next meal. She also brings nothing to the meal. Although she may seem tone-deaf, she is extremely sensitive. This has left the host friend in a dilemma. Do they just accept this behavior as it is (as she has taken advantage in other situations before) or say something? Let's explore this issue in detail.

Understanding the Situation

Some might view this as a sign of greed, while others might see it as a prudent move. It could even be seen as a metaphor for the ills of society. The hosts have been very generous in offering doggie bags and encouraging their guests to take food home. They have not set any limits on the number or size of the bags. This has led to one friend taking an excessive amount. But if the hosts are not bothered by it, should the other guests have a problem? It's a complex situation that requires careful consideration.

On one hand, the friend taking the excessive doggie bags may not realize the impact it has on others. She may just be acting out of habit or a sense of security. On the other hand, the hosts may be too polite to address the issue directly. They may not want to make anyone feel uncomfortable. This creates a delicate balance that needs to be addressed.

Host's Perspective

The hosts have set the table and the parameters for the Thanksgiving meal. They have offered doggie bags as a way to ensure that no food goes to waste. They are not asking anyone to bring anything and are simply providing a generous meal. If they wanted to set a limit on the doggie bags, they could have done so. But they have chosen not to, perhaps out of a sense of hospitality.

However, they may also be aware of the friend's behavior and may be uncomfortable with it. They may not want to address the issue directly for fear of causing a rift. This leaves them in a difficult position, as they don't want to make anyone feel bad but also don't want to encourage this behavior.

Guest's Perspective

As a guest, it can be awkward to see someone taking an excessive amount of food. It may make others feel like they are not getting their fair share. But at the same time, the hosts have given their permission for guests to take food home. It's a fine line between being polite and speaking up.

Some guests may be reluctant to say anything for fear of hurting the friend's feelings or causing a scene. Others may feel that it is their duty to address the issue, especially if it becomes a regular occurrence. Each guest may have their own opinion on how to handle the situation.

In conclusion, this Thanksgiving tradition has presented a dilemma for the host and the guests. It's a complex issue that requires careful thought and communication. Whether to accept the behavior or address it is a decision that each person will have to make based on their own values and relationships.