Part of the ritual surrounding my food consumption is my attitude of gratitude. I take a moment to thank everyone who did anything to bring the food to my plate: planter, grower, picker, trucker, irrigator, produce manager, greenmarket vendor, stock person, cashier, cook, waiter, dishwasher — you get the picture. When I purchase food, I always thank the vendor. If it’s just a coin or two at the Greenmarket, I say, “Keep the change. Thank you for growing my food.” When I make a truly great dish from a vendor’s produce, I save a little serving, and bring it back on my next trip. “Here, I made this pesto from your terrific basil.” I even share recipes, if they want them.

In my NYC apartment, all I can grow is sprouts (which I do often), but no matter where you live, you can be grateful for the miracle that is your food. Health and peace.