Food. It's perhaps life's most universal necessity, as well as joy. Whether it is a mother preparing dinner for her family, a husband throwing prime rib on the grill, or a chef showcasing his or her skill at a fabulous restaurant, eating is about family and community. You use it to celebrate positive events, such as a new job or a raise, or even as a way to propose marriage. Sitting around the table together in the evening to share details about your day is a way to use the custom of dinner to bring your family closer together. You rely on food for nourishment, though it goes far beyond simple sustenance.