In some cultures, a small object—edible or not—is hidden inside one ravioli or manti (an Asian dumpling) during preparation. The person who finds it is believed to be blessed with good fortune.
My own love story is deeply intertwined with this unique tradition.
At 28, while most of my classmates were already married, I hadn't even had a serious girlfriend. One day, a friend hosted a party to celebrate the birth of his child. His wife prepared ravioli and hid a button in one of them. They invited old classmates and new friends alike.
While eating, I choked on that very button. It felt like a small stone was lodged in my throat, blocking my airway completely. Realizing I might suffocate, I panicked and lost consciousness...
Fortunately, a hospital was nearby, and my friends rushed me there within minutes. I was taken directly to surgery, where doctors made an incision in my airway and successfully removed the button.
However, a miracle followed. During my week-long hospital stay, I fell madly in love with one of the nurses. By the time I was discharged, I had proposed to her. A year has passed since our wedding, and now my wife is expecting our first child.
So, that ravioli with the button truly brought me happiness!