Any gathering in the South is incomplete without the presence of food. Funerals, Weddings, Family Reunions, Church Homecomings and any other excuse for people to gather is an occasion for breaking bread. With these gatherings, the food provided is usually “potluck”, with each family bringing a special dish.
These occasions are only peripherally about the food. Food is an excuse to share and renew old bonds or create new ones. Breaking bread or sharing food is the mechanism for building trust and a base for longer relationships. The breaking of bread either in pairs or in larger groups breaks down the more artificial barriers to sharing thoughts and ideas.
As a rule, there is no joy or sharing by eating alone.
Who do you need to break bread with?
