A Reverence for Rice

Rice is so ingrained in Asian cultures that a common greeting for people is usually "Have you had your rice today?" and rice grains are frequently used in sacred rites.

I can't emphasize enough just how integral rice is to Asian peoples. Not only does it provide daily sustenance, it is also venerated as an important element of the culture. The Japanese use rice in words that denote breakfast, lunch and dinner. I guess you'll always know what's dinner there! I know I cannot go 48 hours without rice. It's like oxygen to me.