It’s late, but we have just arrived so we celebrate with food. The air is hot and so is the breeze. There are no clouds but there are lots of stars. The mall is loud and exciting and new. I feel disoriented but happy.
It is crowded so we must wait to be seated. While we wait, my aunt looks at a menu. I want to look to, but one was not given to me. This must be how they order.
We are seated, and there is still one menu. They ask what I would like and I do not know because I cannot see the menu. My aunt orders for me. This must be how they order.
My cousin asks for another menu and hands one to me. I choose quickly because I do not understand and I do not want to inconvenience anyone.
They bring scallops to the table without the other foods. Everyone takes some. This must be an appetizer.
They bring my dish out on a platter with a serving spoon. I put it on my plate but think it would be easier if they just put it on my plate. This must be how they serve food. My dad immediately takes a spoonful of my food. This must be how they share.
More food is brought to the table. They offer me all the food. I am new, this must be how they greet me. With hesitancy, I try everything. They try everything too. This must be how they share.
My aunt picks my dish up and tells me she will bring it to the other table, where my other relatives sit. She must think I am done. I take some more before letting the dish go. She brings it back. I am confused. She brings soup from the other table to our table and then I understand.
“So… here do you not order individual meals?” I ask my cousin. She explains. Here they order food for the whole table. Everyone eats from all the dishes. I like this style.
We exchange stories and ask questions. This is the most meaningful meal I've had with my father.
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