The Death of the Dinner Party

My best friends and I love to get together and have dinner parties. It's an intimate way to be with the people you love; spoiled by fine libations, intelligent conversations, and beautiful foods. It's the best way I know to show someone that I care about them. You come over to my house, I clean it, and light candles. I spend the day in the kitchen for you, I can't really call it work, since I'm thoroughly and happily immersed in my favorite art and craft. We get to spend quality time and learn more about each other. After the party is over, we've strengthened our reciprocal social bonds, and hopefully, we're better off for it. So why is this wonderful tradition on the decline?
Society seems to be more superficial these days. The concepts of speed and convenience are so embedded in our culture, that hardly anyone takes the time to really cook anymore. Ironically, it can cost more to make a nice dinner at home than it would have to eat out, or buy prepared meals. It also takes a lot of time. Still, I always feel it's time and money well spent.
Hopefully, more people will learn to Cook, and throw dinner parties for me. People really worship you when you feed them and give them a moment of luxury.