We all need to eat and drink to stay alive. But having a meal is more than eating and drinking. It is celebrating the gifts of life we share…..Much more happens at a meal than satisfying hunger and quenching thirst. Around the table, we become family, friends, community.
That is why it is so important to “set” the table. Flowers, candles, colorful napkins all help us to say to another, “This is a very special time for us, let’s enjoy it!”
This quote came from Henri Nouwen’s book “Bread For The Journey”
Part of me has always been aware of this deeper bonding that took place over food. I just never heard anybody put it into words before I found this delightful book that echoes what I have often felt inside.
I am looking forward to this Easter weekend – to the many opportunities it will provide to sit down with people I care about and “share bread” together – opportunities to enjoy one another as “persons” – maybe even bring some new life to relationships that were flagging for one reason or another.
HAPPY EASTER!
