Food To Feed One’s Soul

All of us have experienced moments that have shaped us into the person we are today. Everybody can remember a moment which changed their life, no matter how big or small. You can. I can. All of us can. Siddhartha Gatama, a Nepalese philosopher once stated that “One minute can change a person’s life”, that “one day can change their lives and one life can save the world.” Usually, significant moments are viewed as a win, a life-threatening injury or college acceptance letter. Could it be that even something so small, like eating your favorite food could be considered significant? Although it seems odd, especially because it is against what we have predetermined as a meaningful moment, I think that even small moments can have significant meaning in our lives.

Ray Gonzalez’s “Hangover Cure” demonstrates the importance of small moments like enjoying your favorite food. He also explores how it can be expanded upon. Ray Gonzalez believes food can make a person’s day brighter and can lead to many connections. Food can lift you out of any ailment, even a hangover. Gonzalez’s memoir, “Hangover Cure,” shares a story about how food helped him overcome a challenge and brighten his day. This memoir reveals that even small amounts of food can bring joy and meaning to your life. The memoir shows how Menudo helped Gonzalez recover from his hangover. Details like calling the hangover a “big myscal death” highlight the extent of the problem. Gonzalez’s favorite food is what “cure” him. Gonzalez says that Mama Menudo is a wild, greedy, and joyous experience. It can also save your life. He also demonstrates the joy that he receives from eating Menudo. It doesn’t matter how small or insignificant things are. They can bring you joy in ways that you couldn’t imagine. Gonzalez’s “Hangover Cure”, which is relatable to many, has many memories similar to mine. A person can feel a connection to food and it can bring significant value. It can also help overcome obstacles like the one Gonzalez experienced. Gonzalez also found a particular food that helped him cope with his daily struggles. My comfort food being durian. Gonzalez refers to Menudo, calling it “the most delicious thing anyone’s ever had the pleasure of eating.” Nothing else compares.” Similar sentiments would apply to durian. While others may find it strange to think and smell durian, I have loved it since childhood. Its yellow interior, chewy texture and distinctive smell make me want it. It is the best food I have ever eaten. My brother always questions my love for it. He would ask questions such as “Can you smell it?” and “Do your tastebuds feel fine?” He knew, despite these comments, that durian was my best-seller for everything.

My entire childhood was spent in California, as an Asian American child. This was my bubble. It was the place I grew up in, and it was where I stayed until my teens. My parents brought durian into our home and my bubble burst. It was the most beautiful food I have ever seen. It had a strange-looking shape and was very spiky. It tasted great, despite its odd appearance. It can be eaten as a fruit, dessert or dish. Even though I don’t eat non-American food, durian was a favorite. Durian made Vietnam seem not far away to me and I felt like I could be there.

As Gonzalez, comfort foods have helped me to overcome everyday obstacles and also brighten up my day. Growing up, I was not strong and was often underweight for what I was. I was prone to sicknesses and did not have the comfort of family to support me. A durian soup is my favorite comfort food. My ritual starts with a teaspoonful of black Pepper in the bowl. While my brother stares in horror, I continue to eat. I ignore him knowing that he will never get it. Gonzalez asserts, “An innocent and ignorant person would claim it looks like leftover cooking fat and dog vomit!” It’s a wonderful thing to love and it will make you a better person. The cold was not the only reason I ate durian when I was sick. Durian icecream is unique. Durian ice cream is unique in its tartness and texture.

It makes me smile and my eyes brighten up. It brings me comfort. It is still my comfort food, and I find it very special to see one in the grocery store.

Returning to the question of “Is a moment as small as eating your favourite meal, a significant one?” The answer is yes. Comfort foods can help overcome obstacles and brighten your day. You can see that the stories of Gonzalez and me, who ate Menudo to ease a hangover, are very similar. While food can be helpful in dealing with everyday challenges, it’s also good for the soul.