A Singapore tradition during Chinese New Year is to share pineapple tarts. They are not a tart that a French pastry chef would make. They are a bitesize round ball with a buttery dough on the outside and a chewable gem in the middle. At times, one is treated to special recipes, crafted in the kitchen by those trusted with the details and the craft.
Just before New Year Eve, a small box was presented to the office by a senior staff member. It seems that she was gifted with a family recipe and has refined it a few twists of her own. Of everything I have tried, these were top ranked! Near perfect. I tried to think of what might make them better but I was could not think of a single suggestion.
On our first day in the office after the New Year start, with the 2-week celebration continuing, there was a second round!
“As I thought of your reactions, I thought of two more ideas to improve the tarts.”
“Wow! I did not think they could get better, but they have. Incredible!”
“Really? Are they good?” After a long pause, “do you really think they are better?”
“We do! What do you think of them?”
“I do not know. I have not tried them yet.”
“The good person is generous and lends lavishly,” (Psalm 112.05) starting with themselves and the works of their hands.
We eventually convinced her that she needed to try the works of her hands. As she bit into the tart, a quiet smile formed. You could see her satisfaction in what she was tasking and experiencing.
I do not know her secrets. I do know firsthand how wonderful her efforts in the kitchen can turn out to be. I also know that she has a generous spirit that starts within her heart and spreads across everything she does. It was a bold first move! On that day, I was among the first to taste and experience but not the last. In the end, each bite was a gift.
