When I was a child, I often saw Mother giving food and/or small changes, along with good wishes, to every beggar that came to our door. She said it was an auspicious sign that someone in need came to our door. Also, she never failed to feed the stray dogs and cats that came by in our village. Growing up, I was never a big fan of her superstition. 

When Mother sold vegetables she grew at the market to support my brother and me going to school, she always gave away small gifts, such as a handful of chives or garlic, to strangers who passed by, no matter if they were interested in buying her vegetables or not. Gradually, more and more people became her loyal customers. I was never a big fan of her marketing strategy.

Every time when I visit home, Mother makes way more than what I can eat for each meal. Once she knows the date of my arrival, she begins to think about all the food that she could possibly make for me months ahead of time, including saving some seasonal ingredients in the freezer. I often feel overwhelmed by her enthusiasm in feeding me. 
 
This morning as I was reading the words, "The giver of the food is the giver of life," I paused. The image of Mother instantly came to my mind. Mother has always been a food giver. Sure, I could judge her for being superstitious, practical, or too motherly, but how could I explain her pure joy in giving, the glow on her face, and the way she laughed when she handed a stranger a handful of chives? Maybe I shouldn't have blamed my parents for all my self-centeredness; maybe I have got the generosity genes if I care enough to cultivate them; maybe I should be a bit more "superstitious," "practical," and "motherly" myself. :)

"Therefore, one who desires well-being in this world and beyond should specially endeavor to give food... Food is indeed the preserver of life and food is the source of procreation." -- Maha Ashwamedhika