Peaceful Kitchen Mornings

The Zen of Thanksgiving

Snowflakes dance outside my window this morning. It brings a sense of calmness to the world, helping me slow down and reflect on things that really matter. Of course Thanksgiving is tomorrow so that may have something to do with it.

I was reminded this morning of a time in my life that I had all of the things that we tend to chase after in todays world. I had a big new house filled with brand new furniture and lots of stuff but life was very unsettled. I was in active addiction at the time and no amount of things was going to bring me peace or slow down the train that was headed full speed towards a brick wall. Today I am grateful that this period of my life ended in such dramatic fashion. I walked away leaving behind broken relationships and all the stuff I had acquired. I did the work and found my way back to a place where the things that mattered could not be purchased. It’s not easy. Healing - Solve - Strengthen - Celebrate - Serve - A mantra I have hung on the wall next to my meditation cushion, it empowers me and reminds me that I have an opportunity to serve people every day and in that service I feel the serenity that has been so elusive. I still get annoyed and aggravated most days but the practice of meditation helps me to let it go….. just a little bit sooner.

This afternoon I’ll pick up my knife again as I do most days and practice staying present with the ingredients in front of me. Savoring the herbaceous fragrance. Thyme, sage and rosemary that will perfume my stuffing. The steam rolling off the pot of broth as it simmers fills the kitchen and grounds me. Cooking for me is a meditation in itself and connecting with the process quiets the voices in my head. It’s too hard. What if I don’t make enough money? Are my boys going to be okay and happy? What if I fail? All these thoughts and feelings swirl around in my head and then the sizzling of the mirepoix in my pan brings me back. Back to this moment where I am okay.

I can let todays world run away from me, taking my peace and serenity with it, or choose to do what I can to help. Some days cooking food for other people doesn’t feel like much of a contribution but is a mental reminder to be kind. Kind to myself and those around me. As you pick up the knife and step up to the stove over the next few days remind yourself to slow down, breath and take comfort in serving others. We are enough just as we are in this moment.

What are you cooking today? Does it bring you peace or feel chaotic? Feel free to share your creations