Much of navigating a city is figuring out how to carve out your own space among the masses. Whether it was walking around with ear buds in or not acknowledging the person 6 inches away from your face on the subway, we are usually fighting for our separation. And though I may not miss some uncomfortable moments, I miss people. I miss smiles from strangers, nonsensical conversations about weather and the kind interactions at my favorite bodega. Now the mask I wear when I leave my apartment feels like a barrier. The very thing that is keeping me safe is also keeping me from connecting.
The life we have built being so close to other people does not look great right now. And many of us will retreat to nature and decide that city living is no longer a good fit due to the pandemic. It is easy to question why we decided to live like this when we are consistently being reminded of the danger of other people. But there has always been a risk being with others and participating in communities. Separation may keep you safer in some ways but it also will ensure that you will not be connected.
Food helps people to connect and connecting with others is part of what makes us human. Whether it is at your family’s dinner table, at a restaurant with your friends or during a romantic meal with your partner, it is always about more than the food. Even when you are alone, food can provide a connection to a memory, a trip or a moment with others.
So how is food connecting you to others at this time? Is it your interactions with the delivery guy from your favorite restaurant, cookies dropped off by a neighbor or cooking together with a friend over FaceTime? It is ok that we are cautious in connecting with others at this time, but it is important to find a way, no matter the barriers.