The single-origin French press arrived as I waited at my table. It was not alone. Two small enhancers came with it, a single Italian biscotti, and a wonderful dark chocolate truffle. Everything was enhanced by the other. As I considered the moments ahead, I realised the setting was so much more than myself. It was the wonderful Indonesian coffee, the flavours of the biscotti, the way the truffle would change everything, and most of all, the conversation that would come when the table was complete.
Life is so much more than me. I know it is strange to be saying this after decades of living. I cannot remember thinking that this was, is, or could be true. The “but” comes as I consider my reaction to life and events. Physically and emotionally, it is often all about “me”. Life is far greater than that. Every “best” moment includes at least one other person. I am never the single source or reason for great outcomes.
As much as I enjoy natural food, when food is combined with a love and passion for preparation, the result can be amazing. Flavours one did not anticipate emerging. Surprise textures are experienced when one least expects them. The reality is that changes happened so the result could be possible. Even as the awareness settles, I realise that changes, be they different combinations of including or excluding, created what is now. Candidly, “It’s certainly possible to say, ‘Other branches were pruned so that I could be grafted in!’” (Romans 11.19)
Great teams and outcomes are more than technique, each takes heart. The secret sauce is filled with passion, intent, and dreams. It is hard to imagine the role reason plays. I often experience its revelation in the way things are done. You can feel it first. You can also hear it and see it on the edges.
As good as the coffee, biscotti, and truffle were, the conversation that followed took it to another level. Relationships are x-factors. Harmony leads to shared visions. We can and will step towards a better future.
