Family is everything in the Mediterranean. One only needs to watch The Godfather to see how important it is in these parts of the world. There is a multi-generational aspect to parenting. Grandparents are directly involved in the rearing of the grandchildren. Meals are shared, savored and enjoyed over a single table, not eaten in the car or on the run between meetings, practices and appointments. If things can wait until tomorrow, they do. The greater community is part of this “family-centric” focus; this “village mentality” is real, since people know and care for their neighbors. Spending time really talking and connecting strengthens the bonds of the Mediterranean community.
