On the topic of translations, I can tell you that my brain is a mush between English, Spanish and Portuguese. Most of the time I can’t tell in what language I am thinking on.
This week I decided to talk about something that hasn’t required my translation. You have probably heard of the FIVE ways that people experience and give love: words of affirmation, physical touch, quality time, receiving gifts, and acts of service. All these traits are visible in my team and community, but it has been insane how much the SIXTH love language has impacted my life, and the relationships we have been building in chile, and that is FOOD. Arguably the international Love language.
We have enjoyed the lost art of sitting together with others with NO TIME to end, just sitting down and interacting.
We have been served numerous times. Families from this community have made sure all things are perfect for us around the dinner table, and it’s visible how perfectly they have laid out their love and hearts.
When words are uncomfortable, what a privilege it is to “abuse” of this tool to say “I love you” and “thank you”.
The table has brought us closer to those we have been serving.
The table has allowed us to listen to their stories, to laugh, it has opened doors for them to teach us words in spanish, when we are out of words we sing, we dance, and most of all we taste the flavors of this welcoming culture.
Chile, your hospitality overwhelms me with gratitude.
In light of this, I have written you a guide on
“How to love well: Food Edition”
Invitation: Most humans eager for relationships. And some are waiting to be reached by YOU. Yes, you. That couple who has moved to your city or neighborhood. That young lady who doesn’t seem to have found a group. Or those friends who have drifted away and might be waiting for that moment.
Preparing: This step has many formats.
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This can bring you closer to your partner. You can cook together for your visitors. And what fun it is to explore each other strengths and laugh as things go well, or not so well in the kitchen.
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You can have your guests come earlier to participate in the preparation. Engage in conversations, laughter and companionship on sharing the burden of preparing.
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Allow yourself to express yourself through cooking, and bless your guests with your best dish.
Serving: Discover the joy in serving others, showing them their worth and taking off a burden you might not even know about.
Cleaning up: This is where it gets fun. Find that throwback playlist and have community and laughter as you get down washing those dishes.
There you have it a simple way to love on others.
I hope this brings someone up to your mind that you could invite to join your table.
