Saturday, January 12, 2008

Evoke an Emotion

Humans aren't logical. We're a bunch of nerves and emotions. We take in stimuli from our environment, internalize them and respond.
That makes us who we are, doesn't it? Our emotions.

Good food tastes good. It makes us happy, satisfied, alive. But great food draws out memories, tales of old that age has layered over and kept in the recesses of our mind, happy or otherwise.

Rosemary infused lamb still reminds me of the great times with my first love. McDonald's isn't a happy place for me: we broke up there.

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were a staple of my college days. This simple food fueled my most inspired and productive years yet. It brings back good friends, great teams and embarrassing moments.

Cornflakes and cold milk were a comfort during the hot, summer Adelaide days: beautiful sunrise, romantic sunsets and energy and excitement in between. Like great food, best shared with people you love.

So it is that food evokes an emotional response. A powerful corporate executive getting teary-eyed at the dinner table. The simple food reminding him of the family thousands of miles away that he misses so much. It also strengthens him, it rekindles his belief; he knows who he's fighting for. Yes, John. Those tears were genuine and it convinced us of your leadership more than any dumb-ass speech ever could.

That's why we love food. It nourishes our bodies, our minds and our spirits. Treat great food with respect. Take it for granted, abuse it, and we have the ills of moder n living, obesity, heart disease, etc.

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