Celebrate comfort

Vegetarian Times, March, 2002 by Laurel Lund

Since the fabric of our lives was truly rewoven last September, we have taken on a new mantle. Suddenly we find ourselves longing for a simpler life--one filled with creature comforts and good things. These good things may be something we cherish today, such as a long, hot bath after an ab-crunching workout. Or they may be things we remember from our youth, such as savoring a Pop-sickle on a hot summer's day or swinging from a tree swing Dad patched together from an old tire.

These good things also include our favorite foods--not necessarily gourmet delicacies or ethnic edibles but comfort foods like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and Mom's mac-and-cheese.

That's why this issue is dedicated to comfort--from shining the spotlight on that terrific tuber, the spectacular spud (the star ingredient in our Shepherd's Pie and `Sausage' and Mashers recipes) to turning less-than-pleasant experiences into positive life lessons by creating rituals celebrating the life of a lost loved one.

Even before the events of September 2001 sent us inside, studies showed that Americans were already turning inward--re-enjoying the comforts of hearth and home. That includes sophisticated New Yorkers, too. Instead of entertaining friends in the toniest trattoria or trendiest Manhattan eatery, they're inviting people into their homes for down-home food fare and shared fellowship.

So just as we've become more introverted, reflecting on what's really right with our world, we've also become more extroverted--embracing community by getting in touch with once-unknown neighbors and staying in touch with those we love. Perhaps the greatest gift to emerge from recent events is that we have veered from overattention to designer duds and "prestigious" pursuits to what really matters. We have reflected on the past. We have redefined our priorities. And we have redirected our lives to include only what is truly necessary to live the good life, the meaningful life, the comfortable life. We have, in fact, become comfortable with comfort.

And that's something to celebrate!

Laurel Lund
Editorial Director