Baruch or Yum!

This past week I had the opportunity to revisit with some friends from my early married years. During my mid 20's we were all part of a macrobiotic group and shared many potluck dinners together. I recently caught up with 2 of my friends. As we were talking about food and macrobiotics and sharing stories, we began to discuss saying prayers before a meal. They inquired from me about what sort of prayer I said. So I explained to them the different prayers. I explained that the word "baruch" really means to "spring forth" and that we are not "blessing" G-d (after all, G-d does not need our blessings), but that we are recognizing the source of our food in detail (from a tree, the ground, grain, etc) and ultimately G-d. We are giving "attention" to the meal or food as well as having "intention" toward eating. Both this attention and intention elevates the physical act of eating into a more spiritual act. They found this all very interesting and said that they too had a prayer that they say before eating. I asked about it. They said that they took the "Ohm" from meditation and changed it to a "Yummmm." So before they eat, they hold hands and say a loud, clear, energetic "Yum". I actually found their yum to be quite amazing and full of intention and attention. I have witnessed many "brachot" (blessings) with meaning and those that are void of any meaning or attention at all. I know for myself, there are times I do them out of habit but without thought. So,  I was thinking that perhaps many of us could do with a good "Yum" instead. It may not be very Jewish, but it is simple, to the point and heartfelt. I prefer our own tradition as it is rich and with thousands of years behind it, but I may just add a personal "Yum" to kick it off. Well, here's to however you choose to attend and show gratitude for your food: "Baruch" or "Yummmm". Enjoy!