by Jonathan Spindel
I had known about Aster’s Ethiopian Restaurant for
years, but I never went inside until I started working on a Foodways project on Austin’s
Ethiopian community. I knew nothing about Austin’s
Ethiopians but I thought Aster’s was a good place to begin. I went to try the
food (a truly singular cuisine deserving of its own review -- stay tuned) and
made a plan to meet the owners for an interview the following week. When I
returned, the owners were out running errands, but their daughter Judy
mentioned an upcoming Ethiopian Children’s Cultural Day at the Ethiopian Evangelical Church, an
event I couldn’t miss. So began my introduction to one of the warmest, most
welcoming communities I’ve ever known.
I arrived at the church in the middle of the sunny
afternoon. Church members in full Ethiopian garb welcomed the visitors. Dozens
of children played in the open grassy lawn as the church filled with friendly
faces. When the visitors were settled, the organizers welcomed everybody, then
the pastor offered a prayer of thanks for the auspicious occasion. Then the
children’s choir sang traditional songs and led the audience in a sing-along.
Visitors moved between several stations spread about the
building. Inside the main hall, visitors learned about Ethiopian history and
wildlife, browsed traditional handcrafts and beautiful garments, and learned
Amharic, the language of Ethiopia.
I made a bee-line for the coffee ceremony, where two women greeted me with a
hot cup of the best homemade brew I’ve ever tasted. This coffee is prepared
entirely by hand, even the roasting process. The coffee is strong yet subtle,
there is no bitterness at all. Ethiopia
is the birthplace of coffee -- it’s no wonder they’ve perfected the method of
preparation. (Note: coffee connoisseurs can taste this traditional brew at
Aster’s.)
As I savored my coffee, one church member asked me, “How
many kids do you have?” “None,” I said, taken aback. (This event is meant for
children, particularly Ethiopian adopted children of American families. The
children are encouraged to access their heritage and preserve their customs,
all while forming community.) I was only there to observe, and enjoy the
celebration. I explained my Texas Folklife project. I suddenly felt
self-conscious of this fact. “Welcome,” she said, “We’re so glad you came. God
bless you.” All my anxiety evaporated. I was among new friends.
I understood the deeper purpose of the event: To develop
and perpetuate individual heritage, but also to share culture with new
communities, thus promoting true human connections and cross-cultural
understanding.
When you celebrate Thanksgiving, remember to cherish
your heritage while learning new customs as well. I’m looking forward to my
dinner -- we’re going to have turkey mole, barbecue brisket and maple-glazed
trout, a feast of culture and cuisine with friends and family I love. So here
is my Thanksgiving wish for you: May you share this day with your family,
friends and neighbors; reflect on your fortunes and bounties; celebrate
tradition and community, however they may manifest.
No comments:
Post a Comment