Growing up in Delta, B.C., one of my cherished childhood memories involves family dinners on a small beige mat. The setting sun would cast a warm glow as we enjoyed delicious Pakistani meals, often centered around a pot of aromatic biryani or creamy butter chicken with homemade naan. This tradition, passed down from my father’s upbringing in Lahore to our family in North Delta, emphasized not just the act of eating together but the humility and gratitude it instilled for the food we shared.
As time passed, our busy schedules made it challenging to continue this tradition, and over a decade had gone by since we last gathered on that humble mat. However, during a Thanksgiving dinner at the age of 23, I decided to revive this practice by inviting friends of diverse cultural backgrounds to join us. Setting up the worn-out beige mat in the living room, we recreated the circle of togetherness, sharing a Thanksgiving meal on the ground.
The experience was heartwarming as my father, seated at the dining table, joined us and explained the tradition to our friends. This act of blending our heritage with Canadian customs bridged the gap between our past and present. Inspired by this revival, my family decided to continue the tradition, finding that it brought us closer despite our hectic lives.
Now, as the sun sets, we prioritize dinner time, gathering around the beige mat with an array of food, reaffirming the importance of togetherness. Whether on the mat or around a dining table, the essence of sharing stories and meals remains, connecting us across generations and strengthening the bonds of family.
If you have a personal story that can inspire or enlighten others, we would love to hear from you. Share your story with us and be a part of fostering understanding and connection within our community.