There appears to be a resurgence of younger moms seeking to learn some of those basics domestic arts skills that their grandmothers did – gardening, cooking from scratch, baking sourdough bread, and even acquiring a milk cow or goat to provide healthy, wholesome, fresh, nourishing meals for their families.
The dignity of the family meal table is being restored – slowly – one table at a time. The table and the meal are a vital part in creating a strong and stable family. There is power at the table that becomes a place of celebration, communion, training, storytelling, laughter and family connection with each other and with God.
Centering Power
The table has “centering” power that gives structure and stability, love and security in a world that offers little of. The table is the place where children are introduced to new foods, develop manners and discipline, hear stories and even be affirmed in their own stories, ideas and experiences. The table is the place where special memories are created, holidays celebrated and legacies shared with those we cherish most.
Life Revolves Around the Kitchen
It’s been said that the kitchen is the center of the home and that the woman is the heart, the life and the light of the home. Family life used to center around mealtime – and, however, I believe it’s slowly returning – rather than centering around the next activity.
What the Power of the Table Does
Establishing the mealtime routine at the table does so much for the family. Mealtime not only brings the family together and creates stability, but it also helps to build understanding and communication with each other. Establishing a mealtime routine will give a husband and children a sense of security. The “centering” that the power of the table provides helps the family members do a better job when facing difficulties and stress at work or school.
Manners
I am big on table manners, they not only make mealtime pleasant, but they help train children how to show respect for others around the table. The table has power to teach children the value of waiting until they are served. It has power to teach them how to serve others. For example, both our daughters involve their children in the preparation process. Three children, ages three – six, know how to properly set the table with napkins, forks, knifes, spoons, plates and cups.
At the table, my grandchildren learn to be thankful for what God has provided for their family. Gulping down a Big Mac in the back seat of a car teaches nothing. My grandchildren aren’t “picky eaters” because they learned to try new foods by watching their parents at the table. My mother-in-law would tell her children, “You don’t have to eat it, you just have to taste it.”
Reclaiming the Power of the Table
As the life, light, and heart of the home, any woman can reestablish the power of the table with her family through establishing regular mealtimes. If it’s overwhelming just start with the evening meal and work your way toward the breakfast meal.