It was a different kind of Memorial Day weekend, one where I spent the majority of my time sorting my possessions into piles. I have piles to give away, piles to be packed away into storage and piles of what I will need most over the next few months, the essentials. Thinking about a few months without most of my belongings (or a home) is daunting but also freeing. We tend to think that we need more than we actually do.
Though this has been a time of stress and uncertainty, it has also been one that has forced us to simplify and focus on what really matters. Suddenly those things, those plans and even those people in our lives that were perhaps just taking up time and space are being cleared away. It is a time of clarity when we are realizing what we actually need.
Essential - we have heard that word thrown around a lot these past few months and mainly it has referred to those who are on the front lines. Though many of us may be relieved that our physical presence at work is not as important as we once thought, it is hard to not let it affect our pride. In addition, those of us who have lost work may be struggling with the disposable and fragile nature of the current economy. One day you are needed, the next you are not. It is hard to not feel essential.
Food is essential, full stop. And the people who grow it, ship it, sell it, deliver it and check us out at the grocery store are all risking their lives to get us what we need. Even if we have managed to get an Instacart order or have braved the store every two weeks, we are all being forced to approach food differently. We have to balance only taking what we need and stocking up to feel safe.
As far as our pantry goes, we all have different ideas of what food is essential in our homes. If you are used to a well-stocked fridge, perhaps you have realized you can feed your family with less. Those who did not cook at home as much before, though, may be surprised by the amount of food they consume each week.
So what food is essential in your home and how has the pandemic changed what you think you need? This could be in your kitchen, your home, your social life and your work. We are all reevaluating what is essential in our lives in this moment.