Imagine a time when families ate their meals standing up, at separate times, in the car, on the run, or in different rooms of the house. That time is not in the next millennium -- sadly, that time is now. The family meal, which was once the focal point of the day, is now reserved for special occasions. In fact, Thanksgiving has become the most sacred holiday, not for its spiritual implications, but to enjoy the rare opportunity for the family to sit down and share a meal. There aren't even any decent web sites that talk about the importance of family meals. So tonight -- or tomorrow night -- set a time, set the table, cook some food, turn off the TV, and sit down to a nice family meal. Don't hurry through it or worry about the dishes. Let the dinner linger until 9 p.m. if need be, just enjoy the act of eating together and witness the civilizing effects it will have on you, your children, and society in the new millennium.   | Home | Cultural | Environmental | Musical | Ordinary | | Contact Us | About the Authors | © Copyright 2009 fiftythings