February: Short Month, Big Appetite
Meredith Knopp
February may be the shortest month of the year – but it is filled with events, opportunities, and reasons to gather and celebrate.
The Super Bowl is a great example. Each year, different teams play in the “big game.” When we came to work on Monday, I heard more conversations and saw more photos of the food that everyone consumed at various gatherings than anything else. Whether you cooked, ordered ahead, or just enjoyed the food that someone else prepared, food was central to the evening. Everyone knows it- and many companies spend a LOT of money, hoping you will remember their ads and purchase their food and beverages in the future. Either way, food brings people together, and it brings smiles to everyone’s faces.
Then we have Valentine’s Day. There is much dispute around this holiday and people who both love it and dread it. But one thing is certain – food is at the center of it all. From wine and candy to dinners and decadent desserts, Valentine’s Day is about food. Don’t believe me? Look anywhere to get a dinner reservation this year with Valentine’s Day being on a Friday. You can’t. Food matters. Food unites us. Food is love.
Even if the Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day aren’t your thing, it’s still winter. When it’s cold and gray, nothing brings a smile to someone’s face like a warm meal. Whether it is out at a recent food distribution on a cold and rainy Saturday, or making a pot of soup to share with your coworkers, food can speak love, hope, speak kindness without saying a word.
Last Saturday I saw volunteers braving the elements with smiles as they laughed with one another, enjoying the opportunity to provide food and hope for neighbors in need. I saw businesses and non-profit organizations collaborating for the greater good. They weren’t worried about what company they were representing. There were no banners, and no logos. People from all over the area, black and white, men and women, all backgrounds and creeds were united in their desire to help someone who needed it more than they did. For those on the receiving side of the distribution, I saw smiles and tears, and heard more “thank you’ s” and “God Bless You” than I can recall. It was beautiful. It was simple. It was profound.
Whatever your reason or occasion this month, I challenge you to take the opportunity to share a meal with someone you know and love. Or even better, find a way to share a meal with someone you do not know. If you are looking for a place to serve individually, with your family or friends, or with your colleagues, we would be honored to have you serve with us. Please visit: https://stlfoodbank.org/give-time/.
Oh, and if you need one more reason to share a meal with someone this month, don’t forget that the silly little Groundhog saw his shadow and we are working with 6 more weeks of winter. I think it’s time to get out those crock pots, call some friends, and enjoy! Happy February everyone!
