I paused as I considered the choices on the menu. The plate on the table in front of me just beyond the menu seemed to capture and illustrate the amazing range of Peruvian-influenced choices. As I considered my options, I could hear whispers in the background reminding me of the larger story life was sharing for my consideration.
No matter how compelling or attractive the alternatives might seem, not all choices are equal. I found myself thinking of my experiences, how my body experienced certain ingredients, preparation styles, and combinations. I knew some specialties were not winners for me. I smiled as the life reminder took me to old words of caution; “You know well enough from your own experience that there are some acts of so-called freedom that destroy freedom. Offer yourselves to sin, for instance, and it’s your last free act. But offer yourselves to the ways of God and the freedom never quits. All your lives you’ve let sin tell you what to do.” (Romans 6.16)
Recommendations and descriptions of chef specialties are influencers. Knowing this does not change the reality that the responsibility and accountability for my choices remain with me. Even when I ask someone else to choose, I am accountable for my affirmation and the outcome which follows. Going with the flow may seem to be the best decision and yet life always takes me to the larger story. I have been gifted with freedom. Within this gift is the ultimate personal accountability for what follows.
One will never be perfect in one’s decision-making. The goal is not perfection. My goal is to let my intentional actions lead to awareness, learning, and growth. As I considered dishes previously enjoyed, I looked to take my food experiences further. Today’s menu offers me the opportunity to bring kindness to a world longing to know and experience respect, a sense of belonging, and ultimately community. There will be familiar situations as well as new ones. With each, I have an opportunity to gift others with the same joy as the chef gifted me.
