One year ago today, Russia invaded Ukraine. Millions of Ukrainians left their homes to find refuge in places unfamiliar to them. So many humanitarian agencies have assisted these refugees with basic human needs: clothing, shelter, and food. Can you imagine leaving everything that I have known at a moment’s notice and going to an unknown territory? I can’t.
Food is one of the most important tools for bringing comfort and building connections. Ukrainians were met at the Polish border with food. Imagine taking a bite of a sandwich after fleeing for your life. It’s a first welcome to a new country. There’s sadness for all you’ve left behind but perhaps a glimmer comfort and hope with the first bite. Sitting down with family, friends, acquaintances or others you barely know or don’t know at all, what brings people together? Food. It lightens the mood, shifts the dynamic, and strengthens bonds. The food also becomes a topic of conversation and leads to discovering shared experiences and interests. It is essential to community building. Meals become an anchor to the day.
Sharing meals is a fundamental component to our physical and emotional well-being. Food is not only meant to sustain and nourish us, but it is also meant to fulfill us. Meals are a moment in time intended to be pleasurable, enjoyable, offer social connection and support. My prayer before my evening meal includes the displaced Ukrainians, the ones who have chosen to stay in Ukraine, and for the country itself. May there soon be peace.
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