Eating together has always been a cherished tradition in our home, one that has played a significant role in strengthening the bond between my siblings and me. Growing up, I had never experienced eating shallow alone until I got to the university. My mom would never allow it, which means my siblings and I eat the same food on one plate. Eating with them has never irritated me in any way because I see them as me and they see me as them. We don't do one person, one meat, or my mom sharing it; she would give the meat to the eldest and allow us to share the protein amongst ourselves. Back then, my sister would use her teeth to share the meat just to have some portion of it; I would take it in and eat it. When it was my turn to start sharing meat, I walked in her footsteps.
In our family, we make it a priority to eat together at the same time and in the same place. If the food is ready and you are doing something, you have to stop what you are doing because no one is allowed to stay alone when others are eating. Like I said, we all eat on the same plate, so if you don't join, someone else will eat your food. This culture has cultivated us into making sure we wait for each other to be around before we start eating.
As children, sharing a plate with my siblings not only encouraged us to bond over food but also taught us the value of sharing and consideration for one another. I remember when my junior sister and I got admitted into the university. We stayed in the same house, so we stayed together, but the day I realized the value and lesson my parents had been teaching was the day I was in class for a very long time. It was 9 p.m., and I had some activities to do in school. I got home to see my sister lying on the dining table with both of our food. She couldn't eat because I was not home, so she waited for me. I was a little mad at her, but the day she wasn't home, I went out to get food for us from a restaurant, but after getting home, I couldn't eat because she wasn't home yet. It felt like I was cheating on her with the food or like a taboo. That's how funny it gets.
The amazing little princess
I firmly believe that a family that eats together stands strong together. The act of sharing a meal promotes communication, unity, and a sense of belonging within the family unit. By prioritizing family dinners, we not only nourish our bodies but also nourish our relationships with one another.
We might not be the richest family, but we have the richest bond. Will I change anything if I have the chance? The answer is no. Although we are all grown up, we don't eat in the same place anymore because we can't break the place, and we know what to do after eating. That doesn't stop us from eating together on the same plate if the opportunity comes. Most times, if I branch the restaurant to get food for myself and they are all home, everyone will come with a spoon, and we will all eat together with a smile on our faces.
Thanks for reading.
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