Welcome to the Meal
From my experience in East Africa, people say “welcome” (karibu) when you join them to eat.
First, some quick background from my observations in East Africa:
Morning, afternoon, and evening meals are served at specific times.
Meals are based on what is cooked (not what you desire to eat).
Eating happens sitting amongst other people and very close to the cooking.
Imagine, you walk towards a table with an available seat. Other people are already eating or waiting for food. As you approach, people raise their eyes to you and say, “Karibu” (Welcome). You sit. There is often no small talk. There is just the act of being present for a meal.
One of the cooks walks over and asks what you’d like. You ask what they have today. Rice, ugali, and beans are very common. You say what you’d like, and then you wait. As you wait, the activity of people’s lives moves past you with motorcycles, bicycles, or walkers.
Someone new enters and heads towards the table. They look at you and say, “Karibu.”
I’ve sat at tables like this many times. Sometimes the floor was concrete, sometimes dirt, sometimes sand. Always, I was acknowledged with “Karibu.”
The “welcome” acknowledges that the space is being shared without needing conversation.
Back in Hawaii, I’ve kept the practice of telling people and myself “Welcome.” When I gather with people, I usually have some food like dried bananas, nuts, or coconut water. Whatever surface is available (like a table or truck bed), I set my food down and say “Welcome.” I even welcome people to eat the food in my personal container. It’s wonderful to watch people eat something I’ve made and see their faces get excited with curiosity. I welcome them to eat as much as they desire.
I eat most of my meals alone. So before my first bite, I often tell myself, “Welcome Stacy. Welcome to this meal you have prepared for yourself. Awesome job!”
When welcoming myself to food, I honor and praise myself for accomplishments and achievements. I recognize gratitude for perseverance and change. I am aware of my actions and thoughts. 😁💚
Welcoming myself to food slows me down. It reminds me that food is something to receive, and I am worth a moment of acknowledgment.
You are welcome to the meal.
Stacy 🌺https://youtube.com/shorts/Wh8_JaW5_BE?feature=share
I share my experiences and my perspective. Eating and healing look different for everyone. If you are struggling with food or your relationship with your body, please find support.