My beloved sister sends me a calendar each year that celebrates the spirit of the season. It is published by a progressive group of German Christians and includes art, poetry, and teachings from a variety of religions. Mostly it is really about how to be a decent, thoughtful, committed and just person – all the things we try to be.

This week it taught me about something in this country, namely in Pittsburgh PA. For years now a restaurant named Conflict Kitchen has served food that is entirely devoted to nations with whom we are at conflict. So for several months each you get to eat food from Afghanistan, or Iran, or Cuba, or Venezuela, or North Korea, etc. Tied to the choice of national food are events that teach about the country, cooking courses for school children, and community outreach.

I think this is such a clever idea, using the psychological insight that we need to get to know each other to feel able to connect.  It is also a good sign that people who work for this kitchen get to attend free courses at Carnegie Mellon!  The kitchen’s website is a fount of information.

http://conflictkitchen.org

So this week I’ll delve into cultural differences, or the meeting of cultures, or culture as a tool of teaching and learning. At least that is the plan. We’ll see what I can find…..

Below are some perfect examples of Baumkuchen a German specialty that has been baked for special occasions for over 500 years now. Royalty around Europe orders from this shop in Salzwedel, a town in Eastern Germany.

http://www.baumkuchen-salzwedel.de/Ueber_uns.html

And for local fare from lands we are at peace with: https://www.pdxmonthly.com/features/2015/11/20/a-picture-perfect-meal-from-the-land-of-ice-and-snow    Try Broder Söder on Olsen Rd!