Food for thought

In keeping with my current obsession with food, I’d like to show you seven photos taken from “What the World Eats” a photo essay of the Time Photo Gallery (there are 16 in total). I found it powerful and disturbing, fascinating in its detail and insight into lives in these countries.

Japan: The Ukita family of Kodaira City
Food expenditure for one week: 37,699 Yen or $317.25 AU$388.62
Egypt: The Ahmed family of Cairo
Food expenditure for one week: 387.85 Egyptian Pounds or $68.53 AU$79.42

Chad: The Aboubakar family of Breidjing Camp
Food expenditure for one week: 685 CFA Francs or $1.23 AU$1.39

Great Britain: The Bainton family of Cllingbourne Ducis
Food expenditure for one week: 155.54 British Pounds or $253.15

Ecuador: The Ayme family of Tingo
Food expenditure for one week: $31.55 AU$35.70

Bhutan: The Namgay family of Shingkhey Village
Food expenditure for one week: 224.93 ngultrum or $5.03 AU$5.69

Germany: The Melander family of Bargteheide
Food expenditure for one week: 375.39 Euros or $500.07 AU$625.24

This speaks to me about a number of things. Progress equals processed. Small changes to our western lifestyle combined with generosity could make a huge difference in the lives of others – the only thing lacking is willpower. The remarkable resilience of the poor. Feeding your family is an achievement worth celebrating (or you don’t need a million bucks to have a million dollar smile). Simplicity is a great and healthy aim which will also benefit the environment. And self-funded retirees who find themselves short should consider moving to Bhutan.

What does it say to you?