EAT the FOOD

chef meryl and john

EATING AND SMILING

Sitting at the table and eating with other people is a chance to offer an authentic smile of friendship and understanding. It’s very easy, but not many people do it. To me, the most important part of the practice is to look at each person and smile. When family or community members sit together and cannot smile at each other, the situation is a very dangerous one. Upon finishing your meal, take a few moments to notice that you have finished, that your bowl is now empty, and your hunger is satisfied. This is another opportunity to smile and be grateful that you have had this nourishing food to eat, supporting you on the path of love and understanding.

When you prepare a meal with artful awareness, it’s delicious and healthy.
You have put your mindfulness, love, and care into the meal, then people will be eating your love. People can fully enjoy the meal with body and mind, just like you enjoy a beautiful work of art. Eating is not only nourishing for the body, but also for the mind.
-THICH NHAT HANH

brighten your insides organically