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Cooking can be a way to honor the past from "summary" of Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

When I cook, I am not just following a recipe or preparing a meal. I am engaging in a ritual that connects me to my past, my heritage, and my identity. Each ingredient I use, each technique I employ, carries with it a story, a memory, a piece of history. The act of cooking is more than just a practical necessity; it is a way for me to honor the traditions and the people who have shaped me. As I chop vegetables or stir a simmering pot, I am reminded of my mother, of her hands moving deftly through the kitchen, of the fragrant aromas that filled our home. I can almost hear her voice guiding me through the steps, offering advice and encouragement. In those moments, I feel her presence with me, guiding me, teaching me, comforting me. Cooking becomes a way for me to keep her memory alive, to preserve the bond we shared through the simple act of preparing a meal. I also find solace in the familiar flavors and textures of the dishes I learned to make from my mother. The taste of kimchi, the texture of rice cakes, the aroma of sesame oil – these are not just sensations; they are memories, reminders of the times we spent together, the conversations we had, the laughter we shared. When I recreate these dishes in my own kitchen, I am transported back in time, enveloped in a warm embrace of nostalgia and longing. But cooking is not just about looking back; it is also about looking forward. As I experiment with new ingredients, explore different techniques, and create my own recipes, I am forging a path of my own, one that honors the past while embracing the present and the future. Cooking allows me to celebrate my heritage while also asserting my individuality, to pay homage to my mother's teachings while also charting my own course. In this way, cooking becomes a bridge between the past and the present, a way for me to connect with my roots while also expressing my own unique perspective. It is a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of our past on our present, and a testament to the ways in which food can nourish not just our bodies, but also our souls. Through cooking, I am able to honor the past, celebrate the present, and embrace the future – one delicious dish at a time.
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    Crying in H Mart

    Michelle Zauner

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