The Fickle RSVP

Recently, a good friend of mine invited me to a First Holy Communion party for her daughter. Due to a conflict, I was not able to attend. I told her immediately and sent my card. The invitation requested an RSVP, which is quite common for parties that require a head count for food and beverages. 

After the party, I asked my friend how the ceremony and celebration went.  Everything turned out very well except she was a little hurt.  Several individuals who said they would be attending, chose not to.  She told me about how much work and planning went into the day.  Expecting to see friends and family and watching and waiting for them, only to experience their absence, was hurtful.

One lady was a neighbor.  Several days after the party, she appeared with a card and an excuse: She could not attend because she was mulching!  She missed a First Holy Communion party for which she had RSVP’d for three of her family members to mulch!  Would this make any hostess feel better?

When I was told of the excuses my friend received, I was stunned. I was speechless. 

If you RSVP to an event, it means you will be there.  It doesn’t mean you will be there unless something better comes up.  It doesn’t mean you will be there unless you don’t feel like getting dressed up.  It doesn’t mean you will be there if you can get everything else done in time.  It means you will be there.  It means you appreciate the invitation and have made the event a priority.

If someone cares enough about you to include you in an event or celebration or party, the least you can do is show up.  Appreciate the efforts of a host or hostess and be flattered knowing you are highly regarded.

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