Cordial on a Hot Day and the Fifth Commandment for Good Living

We spent long hours working outside this weekend. By the end of the day, we were tired, hot and just wanted to sit at our wooden patio table (that needs to be sanded and painted) and enjoy a cold drink. Who was going to start supper? After comparing notes over who had worked harder, we decided to have a drink first and think about supper later. 

Then I did some neglected kitchen clean-up while Norm grilled hot dogs. I'm sure he didn't feel much like cooking or setting the table. I didn't feel like doing the day's dirty dishes.

But we were both cordial about it--which is rule #5 in the Ten Commandments for Good Living. Unfortunately, I've forgotten the other nine.

To be cordial is to "speak and act as if everything you do is a genuine pleasure."

 A "cordial manner" is often reserved for our relationships with bosses, co-workers, and even strangers we've just met. Family members are subjected to our less charming side.

What's the point of being whiny, or worse, sarcastic with the people with whom we have to live? Sarcasm is the lowest form of humor.

Of course, after you've spent hours digging in the garden, it is much easier to be cordial after you have relaxed with a cool drink. Which makes me wonder if beverage mixers like "Cordials" were named for their possible effect.

I copied out a recipe for Lime Cordial that I meant to try making if I finished my long Spring 2007 To-Do List.

I am re-reading this post during the summer 2020 Pandemic and I can't recall ever making Lime Cordial. 

 If I find the recipe I'll make some and you may join us under the patio umbrella for some cordial conversation.