Family Quote by Jesmyn Ward
“My mom is the kind of mom, when we would go to a friend of the family's house, and they would offer us something to drink or offer us something to eat, my mother would always say, 'Tell them no.' You could be starving - you could be dehydrated - but as kids, we were supposed to tell the host, 'No.'”
About This Quote
Source Book: Men, Women, Children by Jesmyn Ward, 2019
A mother teaches children to be polite and respectful to hosts, even when they are hungry or thirsty, by refusing offers on their behalf.
In simple terms: Politeness over personal need.
Key Takeaway
Respect hospitality rules.
Themes
respect
politeness
family dynamics
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
advice
family lesson
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- visits
- teaching moments
Key Concepts
social etiquette
self‑restraint
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you prioritized etiquette over your own needs?
- Is it always right to decline for others?
A Different Perspective
May suppress personal comfort for social norms.
