If I learned anything at all about India, it is that the people here are so incredibly giving and hospitable. They give without restraints and by that… I mean that they feed you until you POP! It is such a blessing to be welcomed into someone’s home as the guest of honor, and having them whip up their best foods and most expensive meats. They prepare loads of rice, put their most flavorful and spiciest of spices into their curry, and then they finish off the meal with some homemade chai-tea!
But what do you say to the sweet old lady who offers to replenish your plate? Do you graciously accept the mounds of rice and curry even though the thought of taking ONE MORE BITE wants to make you gag? … or do you come up with an excuse to politely refuse seconds, or even thirds. I personally would rather eat a normal size portion of food, rather than consuming enough food to feed a small Chinese army. So here are a few excuses that my team and I have used this past month.. and yes.. you may borrow them J
1. Oh I am soooo full, I JUST ate, but thank you so much!
2. Oh I wish I could, but I’m allergic to rice. Thank you for offering!
3. Is there meat in that?? O I’m actually a vegetarian, if I ate meat I would have LOVED to try some of your chicken briyani.
4. Oh sure I would love some food, but I have to go to the bathroom right now. I’ll get some when I get back (this is where you exit the room and leave for about 30 minutes.. just enough time for the other people that you left back in the room to graciously accept the sweet old lady’s offer of seconds and thirds until she runs out.. then come back when all the food is gone and eaten by your teammates)
5. Oh..my hands are dirty! But thank you though! (they eat with their hands so they should understand)
6. Oh I would love some food.. but I’m actually fasting. Thanks though!
7. EVERY MAN FOR HIMSELF! Tell them that you would LOVE some more food, you’re your teammate next to you kept raving about how amazing the food is and how they desperately want some more. And rather than taking the food away from your teammate.. you will go ahead and just let them have all of it!
8. HIDE your plate!! If they can’t find it, then they can’t refill it! (if you are desperate.. sit on it.. works like a charm!)
9. In extreme situations….Projectile Vomiting. They can’t feed you if you are puking out your guts!
