My shopping for this week’s fruits and vegetables, each with a label of the country of origin, is a journey through memories, references, and the unknown. In the Emirates, one increasingly finds locally produced products mixed in with Gulf and African produce. The sight of Egyptian potatoes brought a flood of memories, especially the first experience of enjoying locally prepared dishes in modern Cairo with a close friend. The foundation of trust between us was reinforced by sharing food and the stories that went with the meals.
Today begins with the idea of Egyptian potatoes as an integral part of my afternoon meal. Even as I consider my cooking options, I am reminded of the steps I naturally take to establish and maintain trust at a high level.
Trust comes with time, especially the plus level defined by confidence and a willingness to leverage it to the maximum. My trust-plus, an intense faith level of confidence, in another, comes with stories, memories, and intense emotions. Along the way, each step etched itself on my heart and into my mind. The summary of my experience is a simple word, faith. I know the future because of my experience in the past. I am willing to take risks because of my experience-based relationship. The risks include being vulnerable as I open myself up to new ideas and hear truths that others are not able to share.
Trust’s gifts are worth less when I do not put them to use. The light-hearted explanation is that when I ignore Egyptian produce, such as basmati rice or potatoes, I am the one who suffers the loss. Others enjoy the fruits of the land while I am left with options. The old observation plays out in my journey; “We received the same promises as those people in the wilderness, but the promises didn’t do them a bit of good because they didn’t receive the promises with faith.” (Hebrews 4.2)
Today will have its unique challenges. With faith at hand, I can take on the battles. I know I am not alone.
