Back then I wasn't strong enough to overcome the bullies in my life, but today I have a new perspective that doesn't involve canned spinach! Now it's easy to see that Popeye's strength came from his loving nature and the friends he had.
Strength is often defined as the physical power to carry out demanding tasks. My personal strength comes from two sources: being open to learning, and having faith in a power greater than myself. Where or what do you turn to for your strength? What's your spinach?
The most demanding task we are challenged by throughout our lives is to evolve or grow spiritually. However, when we think we have all the answers and allow ourselves to believe we're 'bullet-proof', that don't need help, new input, or constructive feedback, we develop what is called the 'Spiritualized Ego'. In the name of spirituality or strength we become impenetrable human beings and stunt our spiritual growth. We become a closed system, somewhat like a beautiful slab of granite. We may be strong enough to build a house on, but we are vulnerable to water's erosion, or the earth shifting as she changes, and rarely are in touch with our true feelings.
For me, openness and faith are an infallible combination for both my spiritual evolution and my culinary prowess. When I am cooking or planning a meal, I get excited about new things I want to try. My strength as a cook is being willing to try those new things and have faith that they will work out.
Recently I went to a fabulous Italian restaurant in Florida that introduced me to the idea of using 3 different vinegars in one salad dressing. By combining the 3 they created a distinctly unique flavour and blend.
Spinach Salad
Great as a side dish with grilled chicken from the Barbecue. One of Summer's treats.
For the Salad:
1 - 1b baby spinach
4 - ounces Feta cheese
1 - small can of black olives (sliced)
1 - pint yellow pear tomatoes (cut in half)
12 - small portobello mushrooms (thinly sliced)
For the Dressing:
1/4 - cup olive oil
1 - tbsp blueberry vinegar
1 - tbsp rice vinegar
1/2 - tbsp apple cider vinegar
Combine all the salad ingredients in one bowl. Mix the ingredients for the dressing separately. Slowly drizzle the dressing over the salad until there is enough coating to toss. The secret is in keeping the dressing light and minimal. Keep the remaining dressing for future salads.
This week's exercise has 3 steps.
Step 1: Make the salad.
Step 2: Eat your spinach and ask yourself how you define strength for yourself. Are you a 'brawn makes strength' person or do you demonstrate strength through being loving or open?
Step 3: Examine your friends. Who best models your definitions of strength? These models are your own personal 'Popeyes' to help you overcome the bullies, and obstacles in your life.
|
Biography
