How do I decline a £25 neighbour-dinner contribution after supporting the original idea?
NeighboursI put a thumbs-up under “Shall we have tea in the courtyard on Sunday?” Four other people did too.
Yesterday the organiser posted a menu and asked every flat for £25. He has booked a caterer and paid a £100 deposit. The group has thirty-two flats in it, though some residents rarely read the messages. I cannot attend Sunday because I will be at work.
When I explained that, he said, “It benefits the whole building. You supported it.” I supported bringing out a kettle and some biscuits. There was no menu, price or request for a contribution in the message I reacted to. I can understand how five encouraging replies made him feel he should get on with organising something.
I also feel the pressure of being the person who says no after he has spent money. He is usually the one who puts in the effort, and another neighbour replied, “Let's not make him regret doing a nice thing.” I haven't replied because anything I write now will look like an answer to her too.
How do I acknowledge his work while making clear that my emoji wasn't an agreement to this cost? Would contributing a smaller amount be kind, or would it blur the point I need to make before the next courtyard plan?