A Note from the Chef
I wrote this post several years ago for another season, but I think it bares repeating – especially now, when for much of the world, the harvest is in and we enter a time of celebration, of giving thanks for our bounty (big or small) and of deep refection as one year ends and a new one is just around the corner.
Most of us have heard the saying,
“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3
“Or was it the Byrds?”
I have heard it said – from a source far less profound than the Bible or the lyrics to the Byrds song it inspired – that you can’t really know someone until you’ve been with them through each season of a year. “Is it true?” I wondered.
Certainly we can’t appreciate the full symphony of nature’s seasons without seeing them all. “But do we have to know Fall in order to know that we love Spring?” I wondered some more.
In the culinary world, everything has its particular season; a time when each fruit, each vegetable, each plant is at the height of its full flavor. Each has its time in the spotlight. All one has to do is take a bite of a peach in winter to know that it tastes infinitely better in the summer. Nature orchestrates the seasons, but we appreciate and see the cyclical patters it demonstrates everywhere – even within ourselves.
Looking back on our lives in quiet reflection, we sometimes realize that the fruits of our labors also have their time of the season. Sometimes we go forward – full throttle – while at others we halt…not sure of the way. Both are needed.
“…you cannot hasten the harvest.” I heard from the same source.
Give thanks for what you’ve harvested – even if it’s painful; be grateful for the very air you breathe – even if that’s all you have; rest a while, but remember to plant the seeds of your dreams. Nourish them. Be patient and watch for signs of growth. Not all will flourish…but some will.
And once again it will be time for a new harvest, a new season, new blessings to be grateful for. That’s the seed I’m planting right now.
Silvia
Tell me in the comments below what you’re grateful for or what seeds you’re planting for your next harvest.
Come on. Put it out there.
Perfect timing…I can feel myself wanting to slow down and prepare for spending quality time with family during the holidays. I also sense a feeling of taking some time out for some self-nurturing, as well :)
Good to know Desiree that my instincts are right. Enjoy this blessed time.
Wonderful food for thought Silvia. (haha) Personally I am feeling full throttle right now. I am hoping that I don’t get forced to slow down once the holidays hit because my business feels like it is about to launch into wonderful new territory. I plan to keep going, I just hope that I can pull some others along with me.
Good for you Lorna. I think it’s all about balance and following your own internal rhythm. When we listen, we know what we want and get what we need.
Nice thoughts! I am going full throttle with my business right now, but hope I can take some time to enjoy the harvest with my family. :)
It’s great to ride the wave when in full throttle. But even full throttle has to have time when we slow down a bit, even for a day or an evening. I find that when I take the time for fun, I’m even more productive with my work. I think we need the contrast.
Such a great post. I try to live seasonally (even though I now live in a warm climate) and appreciate the food, foliage and overall feel of each season.
My business is heading into its busiest time for seasonal decorating and many holiday gatherings. 2014 will be a year to keep the momentum strong for new online offerings & MY BOOK!
Love the post.
Lovely post. Silvia. Your fluid way of connecting food and nourishment to life on deeper level always makes me smile. If you cook as well as you write, and I’m certain you do, I’d love to enjoy a meal and conversation with you any time!
You are on Shana. If not Italy, then somewhere else. I have no doubt our paths will cross…
Thank you for your comment. I love to write…maybe even more than cooking so your comment is especially appreciated.
Every time I read your work, I am simultaneously hungry and full : ) Keep bringing the good stuff!
p.s. I would join you and Shana in Italy for some wine and food any time as well ; )
Cour. We’ll have to save a place for you. You’re so welcomed!