Aurelio Porfiri
I spoke earlier before of the prevalence of fantasy and sporting elegance in the game of soccer, which can be found especially in countries with a long and continuous Catholic tradition. We are well aware that this tradition is now consistently being threatened, yet something in the cultural genes of the people must certainly remain. Contrary to what many think, it seems that a joy of living is more present in the countries of so-called “gloomy” Catholicism than in those who experience forms of Christianity that do nothing but split off from themselves.
Now, another point is that of the cuisine. What are the culinary traditions that are popular everywhere? It is always those of countries with a long Catholic tradition: Italian, French, Spanish and so on. Obviously, alongside these we also have very important culinary traditions of countries outside the direct orbit of Christianity, such as Chinese, Indian or Japanese (and these are of course also very good in their own regard), but if we remain in the context of Christianity, you can see that wherever in the world you go, there are an overabundance of Italian restaurants.
But think about it: have you ever said, “Dear, to celebrate our anniversary I booked at the German restaurant”; or “I can’t wait to book at that English restaurant.” Obviously these countries have merits in other things, but I believe that Catholicism, despite, or perhaps thanks to, its fasting and its rules, has taught us to enjoy life, in a healthy way, even on this earth. It is true that there are places in which food of American origin is served, the so-called fast food. But as we all know, this type of food is widely associated with serious health ailments whose effects can be seen in the obesity epidemic that is seen in many American populations. In short, you eat them at your own risk.
We always hear, even critically, that Latin people like to enjoy life. This is because Catholicism has traditionally not taught to despise beautiful and good things, but to see their dazzling beauty and has tried to teach the use of prudence and moderation.
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