One must be careful to not be severe and become angry at the members of his family about anything, including things related to food. Even if they ruined his food and did not make the types of food he prefers, he should not be angry with them, because the way a person treats those who are subordinate to him is how Heaven treats the person. The more someone thinks about this point, the more patience he will have, for he will realize that more than one’s family is obligated to honor him, he is obligated to honor and serve Hashem.
Take care to say words of Torah at the table, whether it be from Scripture or a Mishnah. If you are together with other people, even if you are not in the position to expound words of Torah to them, at least make sure to learn something you know by heart for yourself, such as, “All of Israel have a portion in the World to Come…” or the like. The more [you can learn at the table] the better.
