I’ve said before, I’ll say it again, one of the great summer movies, “Top Gun: Maverick”. One of the quotes that I love, “Don’t think, just do!” I have put this quote into action on the golf course. I have also returned to the method of writing my sermons by hand on my trusty legal pad. As I prepared for my sabbatical, I was told by several friends that I needed to find something that provides joy and renewal.
Picture it, a large mixing bowl, potato masher, and a parrying knife are not only a few of my favorite things. Over the last few months, I have renewed my love for cooking. Cooking has always been something that comes naturally to me. This whole process allows me to remember, create, and not think, just do.
I am very blessed to have had some great women who taught me how to cook. My Grandmother Payne not only taught me how to follow a recipe but the important difference between baking soda and baking powder. On the other hand, my memaw taught me the art of cooking with all one’s senses, and a pinch of this or some of that. I remember her making the best egg custard pie. When I asked for the recipe, I had to watch, write down measurements, and to this day, mine does not taste the same as hers. Finally, my mom showed me that the two above-mentioned methods can be easily blended. To date, this is my preferred method. Yes, I can follow a recipe (well mostly, if I’m feeling rebellious, I will add a smidge more sugar or butter, just because I can)
While on sabbatical I have cooked some of my favorites: death by chocolate cake, breakfast, grilled chicken, and roast/all the fixings. I have even tried some new dishes: peach pie, and hibachi chicken, vegetables with fried rice. Just the process of cooking is relaxing, and I can enter the world of “don’t think, just do.”
As I enter the home stretch of my sabbatical, I have learned so much about myself and the world around us. First, I believe we are living in some of the most anxious times ever. People of all ages are trying to deal with anxiety, stress, and panic attacks, too often alone. Mental health is needed now more than ever. One thing that has stuck with me throughout these three months, I am not alone. You are not alone!!! The community of faith should be a safe place where we can bear one another’s burdens no matter if we are clergy or laity. I have also learned and try to practice daily to be kinder to ourselves and offer ourselves grace. It’s okay not to have all the answers or even a plan.
I go back to the quote I began my blog with, “Don’t think, Just Do!” I hear this quote in my mind when life seems to be swirling out of control. I certainly hear this quote as I am cooking. If I start thinking too, I likely cut my finger with a parrying knife or burn my hand reaching into the oven. As far as being ministry, which we all are, remember to lead with love, embrace your gifts, and areas of growth, offer yourself as much grace as you offer others, and then remember, if you’re not failing, you’ve stopped dreaming. Then remember the Psalm of life, “Even when your path takes me through the valley of deepest darkness, fear will never conquer me, for you already have!! Your authority is my strength and my peace. The comfort of your love takes away my fear. I will never be lonely, for you are near.” Psalm 23:4, The Passion Translation.
Keep Cooking!!
Tom
Long Talk…. 