I also agree about being thankful for everything, but I think that bread is the perfect symbol of everything that we have. It’s the first thing that we want, and what we need to survive. A/C or indoor plumbing aren’t completely necessary.

@Pearl — I don’t agree with people who chide others. Respect goes both ways; I’ll respect someone’s culture, but they should respect mine (or lack thereof).

Most people (that I hang around with, at least) don’t mind elbows on the table, but I’ll only do it when I notice that the host is doing it.

There are a lot of funny old traditions when it comes to food. Tycho Brahe died because he didn’t go to the bathroom even though he had a bladder condition. Back in the 16th century, it was considered rude to go to the bathroom before the meal was finished.

@amy — I like the idea of grace too. It’s an important thing to be appreciative of what we have, and it doesn’t have to be bound to a religion. It isn’t completely necessary to do it every day, but it’s a nice little ritual to have. Gets one thinking every day, and helps put things in perspective.

@Aaron — Hahhahah…makes me wonder if Christians say grace before popping Smarties in their mouths, or snacking on their chips. Just this weekend I found out that grace is said before every meal, including lunch and breakfast. Made me realize that I’ve never been to a Christian’s house for something other than dinner.

- SnackMasterPro

cheers from the west

I’d rather pause for gracefulness than grace but hey, as Xibee says, thanks for all things.

I’ve been chided by a Muslim man for not saying a prayer before eating as he does each time. A nun came to my rescue saying she’s sure I said it silently in my heart. Nope but thanks for her save anyway.

I still recall as a child being called out in some sort of song by fellow children, my being compared to an animal for having elbows on the table. People is funny when it comes to food, eating it or thinking about eating it.