Even more re: Stock Show

One of the highlights happens today, when the Grand Champion Steer is selected. This is the finest product of American cattledom. It makes me think of the Old Testament sacrifices, where the finest animals would be selected to be offered as holocausts. (I realize that a steer would not be eligible for sacrifice, but I’m thinking more of the animal as being regarded as top quality.)

Of course there’s neither a location nor a need to offer the beast as an oblation. Even if there were, our society wouldn’t stand for it. The critter will be auctioned off. Usually a top local steakhouse buys the Grand Champion, as it’s good publicity and a nifty novelty. Before the abattoir, the steer will have a day (tomorrow) on display in the lobby of the resplendent Brown Palace Hotel.

I think it’s important for us to recognize that food doesn’t just come from the grocery store. Thinking about where our food comes from is a good habit. It’s a habit that becomes even more important when one considers the panis angelicus.