Food and Happiness: A Memoir of a Memorable Meal in Lisbon
Have you ever thought about the connection between food and happiness? For many, cooking and eating can bring immense pleasure and even change brain chemistry for the better. However, food can also be a source of misfortune, making people miserable. Yet, if we approach food with a positive mindset, it can be a powerful tool to enhance our happiness.
My experience in Lisbon perfectly illustrates this idea. Just a short while ago, I was part of a group of friends from various countries, including Finland, the Netherlands, Hungary, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. We were taking part in an international language course organized by the Council of Europe, which was held in Braga but led us to visit Lisbon for a concert by the renowned Portuguese band, Madredeus.
A Day of Unforgettable Experiences
That day was a series of breathtaking moments. We slept under the open sky, under the starlit Lisbon night. The music was simply unearthly, transporting us to another realm. My friends were bohemian, warm, and delightful companions. The European Council generously covered our food expenses with Euro-tickets, allowing us to explore the city's culinary delights freely.
We danced to the music in an old house, savored ice cream, played songs from our respective countries, and laughed our hearts out. By evening, our bellies started to growl, and we still had lots of Euro-tickets left. What better place to end the day than in a fancy restaurant?
An Expensive but Memorable Lobster Meal
My Swiss Italian friend decided to order lobster, eagerly anticipating the experience. I had never tasted lobster before, and seeing it arrive on the table felt like entering a movie. The warm, cozy yellow light of the restaurant, the vinho verde lingering in the air, and the smiling faces of my friends made the moment even more enchanting. But the real star of the show was the massive lobster that we had to share.
To our surprise, none of us knew how to properly cook or eat lobster. It turned out to be a rather expensive choice, but it didn't bother us. The challenge added a layer of humor to our already delightful evening. We made mock attempts to tame the reluctant lobster, cheering and laughing louder with each failed attempt. It was a gift of camaraderie and joy, and we laughed so hard that the lobster didn't matter anymore.
A Hilarious and Memorable Meal
Whether we managed to eat the lobster or not, the sheer hilarity and the warmth of our friendship made that meal one of the most memorable. We were a team, facing challenges together and sharing laughter along the way. The lobster might have been expensive, but the memories it created were priceless.
Our experience in Lisbon is a clear reminder of how food can bring people together, evoke beautiful memories, and enhance happiness. It was a day filled with laughter, music, and international cuisine, proving that food is not just about filling our stomachs but about experiencing the joy and warmth of shared moments.