Last time I drove out to see my mom she asked me if I'd like her to pickup some dinner anywhere before I came in, so I suggested Pho (knowing she would easily be able to eat it, it's got no spice unless you add it). I explained over the phone that it was absolutely safe, she would love it. When I got there she ordered something else for herself and I had to explain straight up that she was being absurd.

I made Thai food for her later that weekend and it really struck me how sad it was that she's just kept herself locked up away from all of these amazing foods. Honestly spice wasn't even that hard to get used to (I'm still not great but I can appreciate a good blend of spiciness and flavor), like any other weird flavor you can train yourself to eat it.