Fast Life

We've explored the very initial threads of understanding Slow Food, but we should take a minute to consider the subordinate clause "Fast Life." As much as I would like to say that I have continued to live a life in the treehouses in Georgia, there came a time for me to be a bit more functional in society. Sure that begs the question: Was I not functioning and part of society before? Regardless of the implications of that statement, I decided I needed to start a career, maybe live in the city (*gasp*), and even care about earning money (*shock!*). For years, my ideals and naivete led me to the belief that hiding in a treehouse in the woods was the best I could contribute to the human race, and perhaps deep down I still adhere to some of those tenets, but for now I am pursuing a life of full engagement: living the city life, working the 9-5 beat, and stressing out over things like bills and internet connections.

Recently though, I came to realize that maybe it is not an "either/or" equation; maybe I can still maintain some of the previous joys of serenity and communion that I had discovered during the travels of my youth. So, 10 years later, I am embarking on a journey to revive those first loves: joining hands with fellow sweet beings; taking time to make a creative and nutritious meal; relaxing and breaking bread together. These little moments are a refuge from the daily grind of a fast paced and ever more quickly passing life.
Working hard at whatever project is on my plate takes my full attention and dedication - and perhaps I am a bit Randian in that view. I believe that we must create and delve deep into our work (handiwork by Husserl's usage); we must apply ourselves fully to this as it is our duty to our fellow sentient beings. Yet, through it all, not losing sight of the importance in taking time to pause and reflect and enjoy. One way that I do this is through Slow Food.


(Frise lettuce with chaat masala; parsley with sea salt and lemon; white beans; zucchini)