When I think of great food, my mind automatically goes to specific moments with friends. In these moments, everything comes together. Great conversation, friendships that endure, a context of hope and wonder, and above all, a dish that touches all the senses. Even as I write, the images replaying in my mind come with tingles running down my spine, the taste of awe, and an overwhelming feeling of wonder touching my heart and mind. It feels as if the food is still lingering on my tongue in the best kind of ways.
I realize that everything about the moments is still with me. The voice of a colleague in a refurbished London church as we reveled in a great risotto, the larger conversation over a home cooked meal in Chennai, and the wonderful sense of community that unfolded late into the night in Tokyo. There are so many more moments, experiences, and people filling the frame.
As I reflect on the lingering emotions and experiences, I realize that there are so many other memories that come with each bite. Included in the mix are the following.
Laughter and a sense of happiness. Raclette, gluten, hand cranked ice cream, and fresh lattes came with laughter, happiness, and a feeling that all is well with the world. Each had instances of out of control laughter and a feeling of happiness from the gifts life has delivered.
Surprise and a sense of wonder. A unique combination of flavors in Barcelona, a sense of overwhelming freshness in Tokyo, and the warmth of forest vegetables in a noodle soup in Hokkaido take me to moments of wonder and surprise. I did not anticipate these moments. I was not expecting what happened. In the moment, I was caught unawares, taken to a place I did not know, and left with wonder’s embrace.
Above all, the lingering memories of great food creates a sense of belonging. To anyone who has shared a moment like this; “Remember the world of wonders he [Divinity] has made, his miracles, and the verdicts he’s rendered.” (Psalm 105.5)
