“Dai Sung Sek Fun”, if you are a typical Cantonese
especially those born in the 50’s will understand what these means. For the
non-canto, its literally means while at meals time – conserve some dishes for
others not eaten yet. It also meant that “leave some dishes/food” for the next person/s
at the table.
For the current generations, you will seldom hear these
words as the new parents of the present generations would encourage those at
the dinner, especially their children to eat to their heart contents.
Sad but true, these parents are willing to sacrifice their
share of food portion when they (the parents) would continue to adapt the “DSSF”
on themselves.
These scenario happened at all level of class segments,
whether rich or poor. For the rich families, no issues. Food can be easily
replenished and eat to their heart’s contents. For the poor ones, too bad – one
had to go hungry till the next source of income comes along to put food on the
table.
“DSSF” plays an important parts on the up bring of the younger
generations into the adulthood. Its make them realise the value money to put
food on the table. Food on the table is also meant to be shared, not selfishly consumed
almost all by oneself and not thinking of others within the table, especially
in a large families.
I still remembered my mother words ringing in mine and my siblings’
ears ...”Dai Sung Sek Fun”
dc
