I don’t like any beans, except for the occasional green bean. My family says it’s because my brother squished a pinto bean in front of me, and I was horrified. This has caused a few challenges along the way, as in our travels and professional life, we have often been served some type of bean as part of a meal. I have a graphic image, forever imprinted on my brain, of a large steaming platter of lima beans being carried by a server towards my table. I glanced up to my left and saw my husband, who was several tables over, grinning. So, what did I do? I simply served myself a small portion of lima beans. Then as I ate each lima bean, I would quickly take a drink of water and swallow them whole, and I am happy to report, I am still alive today☺
Why does this matter? I strongly believe that when we eat other people’s food, we learn something about them and who they might be. Have you ever gone to your neighbor’s house for dinner, and the spaghetti tasted different? Not better, or worse, simply different.
With this belief, I have developed the “three bite rule” which is unless you are truly allergic, have a belief, health code or value that prevents you from eating something, please try to eat at least 3 bites, making sure to keep the water close at hand. Now, I’m not suggesting you gag through the meal, but instead, consider the person who prepared for the food or hosted the meal, and the reasons behind what was served. Try to eat at least three bites, even if you just don’t like it.
When our five children were between the ages of 6-12, we were living in Hong Kong for the summer. One of my husband’s clients, who was very successful financially, asked to host our entire family for dinner saying he wanted us to have a “real Asian meal.” Now, for most Westerners, Asian food looks different, smells different, the textures are different, and it tastes different. However, we went to dinner and our children were beyond amazing. The next morning, the host and my husband were at a breakfast meeting. My husband expressed gratitude for the evening, and the host replied, “Your children were amazing! They ate everything! However, it was very curious—they drank almost $300 worth of Sprite!” When I heard the story, I could not have been prouder—the three bite rule (and then some) in action.
I would like to also acknowledge that there are very real religious reasons, values, health codes, and allergies that might prohibit you from eating a particular food or drinking a specific beverage. If this is the case, please, do not feel obligated to eat or drink what may be served. However, in this scenario, I believe it would then appropriately be your responsibility to let your hosts know in advance so they can prepare.
INVITATION TO ACT:
With the holidays approaching for many, consider trying the “Three Bite Rule” and try something you previously just didn’t like. And please, make sure the water is close at hand. Know in doing so, you are remembering, it is The Person, not the Plate.
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