Life is paradox.  In our continual exploration of food as a living dynamic metaphor for the divine, we can extend this thinking to our relationship with food.  Certainly, there is paradox in the fact that a properly nourished seed grows into a living plant.  The plant is then harvested leading it toward eventual death.   When eaten, its death nourishes us such that we may live.  Around the world, and throughout time, spring is a time to grieve, mourn, and release  that which is dying while also being a special time to invite, welcome, and celebrate that which is arising or waiting to be born.  Dumuzi, Tammuz, Adonis, Persephone, and Jesus all died and arose at this blessed time of the year.

What is ready, or getting ready, to die with regard to your relationship with food?

The habit of adding salt to your food before tasting it?

Reliance on caffeine to sustain your energy levels?

Eating meat on a daily basis?

Rewarding your children with unhealthy snacks?

Eating unconsciously while driving, working, talking on the phone?

Using food to meet emotional needs?

What is ready, or getting ready, to be born or spring forth with regard to your relationship with food?

Adding a new fruit or vegetable to your diet?

Starting to make regular visits to your local Farmer’s Market?

Planting some strawberries in a container in your backyard?

Adding Juice Plus+ to your health care plan?

Taking a cooking class?

Taking a moment to give gratitude for your food before eating it?

I invite you to set an intention.  If you’re willing, please comment on this post with your intention.  Doing so will help ‘seal the deal’ and propel you more quickly toward manifesting your intention.  Something is fading away.  Something is sprouting forth.  What are those things for you?

One of my very favorite things about homeschooling is something we call Lunch Club.  Basically, about once every two months, eight chefs between the ages of 8 and 14 prepare a scrumptious three course meal in my kitchen.  It is a sight to see!  Of course, any culinary expert will tell you that you can’t just jump in the kitchen and whip up a five-star meal.  No, it can take weeks of planning as it does for this group.  Here are the steps that they take before presenting their delicious meal:

1. Submit recipes and set the menu;  One of the dishes that they selected is ROASTED BABY VEGETABLES.  Click here to find the recipe at epicurious.

2. Price the ingredients and make any adjustments to the menu in order to stay within budget;

3. Purchase the ingredients;

4. Gather in working groups to prepare the meal;

5.  Enjoy!

CAUTION:  Children can grow to love vegetables and try to sneak yours from you!