This might sound weird, but I’ve always liked washing dishes by hand. I worked as a dishwasher and busboy at a local fancy restaurant in high school and I liked the dishwashing part more than bussing. I know that machines are more water efficient and I use mine all the time, but I also really like getting into the suds and hot water, and the scrubbing and making of dirty dishes clean. It’s the tangible accomplishment; you can actually see the positive results of your efforts – instant gratification. It’s good for your mental health and I recommend it to facilitators who work with tough situations and tough people for a living. When you have a rough day, wash your dishes by hand that night – you’ll feel better. So next time I have dinner at your house and disappear after dessert, don’t be alarmed; I’ll be in the kitchen.