When I was young I enjoyed getting into the kitchen, making a mess, and trying to create something wonderful to eat. Some of my ideas worked. On other occasions, the results were best placed in the bin. It was a fun and crazy time of life. Everything was possible! Anything was within reach. Nobody, including myself, could accurately predict what was going to happen.
With time, my approach to cooking has changed. As I look back while thinking of now, I find new element. When I started I relied on my ideas. I was curious but not really interested in what others had to say. I was open while being closed to helping hands. When I think of my approach today, see three fundamental differences.
My starting point is a good idea. I am not focused on the authorship, just the idea. Professionals, friends, even those I rarely spend time with are sources. Anyone can and often does have a good idea.
I am looking opportunities to leverage the advantages of collaboration. Want to help? Come on into the kitchen! Have an idea? Let’s hear it, especially if you are willing to execute it. Looking for a platform to experiment? I am happy to share what I have. Working together always translates into something fun and often great.
The goal is the process and the outcome, not just the outcome. No harsh words, cutting comments, or negative emotions in my kitchen. Relax, take time to appreciate what is happening, and enjoy the ride. Taking the right steps often leads to great outcomes. Even when the food falls short of the dream, the steps along the way come with wonderful lingering memories.
As I anticipate the dinners to come, Thanksgiving, holiday meals with friends, my thoughts include people past and present, great memories, and hope for the future. I am caught in a David psalm; “Just as each day brims with your beauty, my mouth brims with praise.” (Psalm 71.8) In walking with others, courage grows. In working with others, hope blossoms. We are in this together.
