Why did John find that he "couldnt help liking" Mr. Pignati? In whatway is he in contrast with John's mother?

John couldn't help but like Mr. Pignati because he was warm, compassionate, and generous..... unlike his parents. Unlike John and Lorraine's families, he's filled with a sense of joy despite his problems. He plays games, invites them to go to the zoo, and shares his wife's collection of pig figurines with them.