Sydney Maco

We live in a society with an abundance of food, more than could be imagined by previous generations. Our affluence as a society has enabled us to substitute food for comfort rather than it’s primary purpose, i.e. nourishment. Another important, sometimes overlooked concept is that a meal shared is always better than one eaten alone. There is something special about sharing a meal together, with friends for lunch, with family at dinner time, etc.

With the increase in the variety of food available, and the popularity of easily accessible (not as easily digestible) junk food, the way we spend meal time is changing.

You have teenagers and squatting adult children (some in their 30s) who wouldn’t touch a home cooked meal if an offer to go and eat out with friends came up. It doesn’t leave a very nice taste in the parents mouth, treating the home like a hotel, coming and going as they please.

On the other hand, our parents probably wouldn’t be caught dead in a cafe or restaurant, and look forward to weddings and christenings for a semi-formal dining opportunity. Not many people say grace before a meal these days, and the few that do make the effort don’t seem to be consistent or ask their children to do the same. By diving straight in to eat, not waiting for the father to sit at the head of the table, we’re reducing the value of the meal to the equivalent of a frozen lean-cuisine.

It’s important to make the effort not only to eat good food, but to enjoy it in good company. This can take many forms, and doesn’t need to be an expensive dinner out with friends.

A simple picnic (not one where you pack half the fridge and take a folding table and chairs) is the best way to enjoy the outdoors with your family. You don’t need to fire up a coal barbecue, just pack enough to make a few sandwiches, some fruit, water, and enjoy. By keeping it simple you’re more likely to do it more frequently.