As human beings, we all breathe, we all have a brain, we all live on earth, but the most underrated thing we all share is food.

Eating food is not just a necessity, it’s a universal language that we all speak. Food creates a different kind of connection that cannot be replicated by anything else. Food allows us to set all of our cultural differences aside and serves as a form of cultural expression. Some could argue that symbols or religion are the most important part of someone’s culture, but I say that food is the most important part of any culture. Every country around the world has at least one dish that includes rice. Even with geographic boundaries, food is the common ground between us. Even though we don’t all speak the same language or have the same beliefs, the flavors of different meals around the world speak to all of us.

Whether it be family dinners, or going out to eat with friends, food encourages conversation and is a part of so many bonding experiences, yet we don’t even realize it. My favorite life memories all include food somewhere in the mix, like trying new foods and spending time with my mom, or hanging out with my best friends, and even Christmas dinners with my family. Food is involved in so many celebrations and holidays, like eating cake during people’s birthdays. Food is the link between us and the past, and as recipes get passed down from generations before us, we are able to further connect with the cultures created by people before us. Instead of viewing food as sustenance or just a normal part of life, we should think of it as a way for us to learn, create, and connect.

“Food is everything we are.”~ Anthony Bourdain.