"We don't come to the table just to feed our bodies, but to feed our relationships."
— Unknown
We can all picture the scene. Work, school, sports, dance, vacation, parties. Time is our most precious resource that can be wasted away faster than we ever realize. It is easy to feel alone even when surrounded by people. Our relationships with family and friends too often get pushed to the back burner and left to simmer while we feel the need to tend to the fires right in front of us.
It's hard to gather, to sit down and just be. Dinnertime can feel like one more thing to manage. It's tempting to skip it, eat separately when time allows or to swing by the drive through and eat on the go. Research shows though that families who eat together regularly see real benefits. Kids do better in school, everyone eats a little healthier, and we all feel more connected. It's not magic. It's just what happens when we slow down and show up for each other.
Connection happens at the dinner table. Even 15 minutes set aside each night can affect positively interactions the next day and all week long. It's okay if you aren't able to start every night. We get it, we are parents too. Schedules fill up fast and before you know it, the house is empty until 9pm. It can be messy, quick or quiet, the point is showing up. Start with one night a week, set it as a goal and see how easy it is to make it two.
We'd love to hear how you are able to gather your family around the table! Feel free to comment below to share your tips and tricks.