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Chinese tradition of eating together

Chinese people like to eat together; this tradition can be traced a long time ago. It reflects the Chinese notion of union versus division—round tables, round dishes, and round bowls all symbolize union and perfection. Dishes are usually placed at the center of the table so that everyone around the table can share them. A hot pot, in particular, adds to the atmosphere of harmony and union. Friends eat and live together. No matter where you work, if it is time for meal, there is always somebody asking you if you will go to eat something, then you can go there together. Even in a family, when somebody hadn’t returned home at the meal time, the whole family will wait that one and then eat together. This has become a tradition and custom unconsciously. Some people held that the Chinese collective tradition developed out of the practice of eating together.

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