The small venue was known for its brunch dishes. On the day I chose to indulge, I found myself staring at the plate, listening to the health-conscious voices from my younger days. Semi-cooked eggs, cheese, salad dressing, coffee, and a waffle. Was there anything more I wanted to add to the plate to make my meal unhealthier?
I look back at the experience with different whispers. I hear my mind listening to the laughter and conversation that went with it. I experience a sense of joy and peace all over again. My reflection is taking me to a place where I know I am accepted. I belonged. I know whatever follows will be ok, if only because I am in a place of being loved and cared for.
In hindsight, the Woodpecker name triggers a lesson as I begin a new day. Life is not about endlessly striking the fine points to capture a tiny fragment. My breakfast could have been one of those moments. I knew there were more than enough elements on the plate that were less than ideal. My breakfast reminded me that life is about community, relationships, belonging, love, and friendship. When I let go and focus on that, everything else is balanced.
I start today reliving the breakfast moment, consuming the whispers.
In each moment, remember what is important. As certain as I am about what is right for me, letting go of my view of what is absolute for others creates endless opportunities. It allows me to collaborate towards a shared dream of a better future. It starts with an old reminder to not “drag them down by finding fault. You’re certainly not going to permit an argument over what is served or not served at supper to wreck God’s work among you, are you? I said it before and I’ll say it again: All food is good, but it can turn bad if you use it badly, if you use it to trip others up and send them sprawling.” (Romans 14.20)
Life is found in the moment. Carpe diem.
