As this blog is primarily about food and alcohol, it might seem easy to dismiss it as relatively unimportant in the greater scheme of things. There are certainly plenty of more important topics that could be discussed, from terrorism to racism. However, if you look a little bit deeper into the world of food and alcohol, you'll realize that it actually can play an important role in our lives. It is not as shallow and ephemeral as it might seem from a cursory look.
I could easily point out some of the larger food and drink issues that affect our entire world, such as sustainability and the hunger crisis. No one can dispute the importance of these issues and they alone would justify the significance of any blog that covers those topics. We need more dialogue about such issues, a greater discussion on potential solutions and advice on how to improve these situations. However, that is not the prime point of this post.
I want to discuss the fragility of life.
We don't like to consider or discuss death, our own mortality. We don't like to consider life without our family and friends. We usually face it, and often reluctantly, only when it directly touches our lives. As much as we want to avoid it, death will come for all of us, and we don't know when it will arrive. We don't need to dwell on our eventual deaths, but we should acknowledge its inevitability and live our lives as if it might around the corner.
For many people, food and alcohol is a quality of life issue. It is what brings us pleasure, what makes our lives happier. And as I have emphasized repeatedly, food and alcohol is always much better when it is shared with others. If food and alcohol enhances our experiences with our family and friends, if it makes our lives better, then it is certainly a vital aspect of our lives. Just think of the simple pleasures of a grilled hot dog or glass of Rosé at a backyard BBQ with your family and friends. It is moments such as that which we should cherish.
Not everyone may feel that way about food and alcohol, but the basic idea remains for everyone: Enjoy life. It is far too short and we don't want to die with any regrets. Don't wait until you are older to create a bucket list. Start now and try to enjoy every ounce of life. Dine at that restaurant you have been wanting to visit but just haven't done so yet. Buy that bottle of wine or whiskey you have been eyeing. Travel and experience the food and drink of another state or country. Don't keep putting it off, as there might not be sufficient time tomorrow.
And finally, make sure you tell your family and friends that you love them.