Everything in moderation, including moderation. ~various
Calm down. I know there are some dear hearts who can’t have dessert because of honest-to-goodness health challenges. But if you’re planning to forego Aunt Sarah’s pecan pie this Thanksgiving because you’re worried about calories, you just need to get over that nonsense. Let yourself savor life — and for heaven’s sake, let Aunt Sarah love on you!
For many, baking is their love language, their sincerest form of care. You know that! They sacrifice precious time and resources, most notably around the holidays: chocolate and lemon meringues, chess pie, pecan pie, pumpkin roll, divinity, fruit cake, cranberry bread, fudge … Why would we even consider hurting feelings by dismissing these efforts?
So many early connections with my Mama and Grandmother and Grandma happened in the kitchen. Biscuits, cornbread, chocolate cake, pie crust cookies, yeast bread in just-right-size pans for little hands, rolling pins, aprons, discovering that a little salt makes sugar taste even better — realizing the joy and satisfaction of nourishing hearts as well as tummies. And isn’t heart what matters most?
When Susan Pohlman spent a year in Italy, a trip to the beach underscored where many of us get it wrong:
I could plainly see that beach culture was not about image. Every woman from age four to a hundred and four was in a bikini. …
The choice of suit had nothing to do with body types. It had to do with being able to feel the luxurious heat of the sun on your skin. Flab abounded without apology. … I found myself unexpectedly enchanted by the unpretentiousness of it all. …
People here were not painfully thin and not especially toned. No one cared. Your body was just your body, the vessel that held your spirit. And the spirit was what was most celebrated.
Our bodies are vessels for our souls. That’s not a license for gluttony. It doesn’t mean we don’t take good, gracious care of our bodies. No; it means we keep everything in perspective. We choose not to be legalistic about food and exercise. Instead, we deliberately embrace the truth that every good and perfect gift is from above.
How could we deny the Lord’s kindness in providing for the whole of us — especially through the offerings of those who love us well on this earth?
This year as you gather around the table and dessert is served, simply be thankful. For how God has shaped your body and your soul. For the grace of family and friends.
Maybe you’re naturally slim. Don’t judge. And don’t say you’re trying to watch your weight. Just thank your hostess and enjoy.
Or maybe you’re pleasantly plump. Don’t compare. And don’t say you’re trying to lose weight. Just thank your hostess and enjoy.
P.S. If you’re looking for new dessert recipes, consider Southern Living’s Pumpkin Spice Magic Cake and Chocolate Cranberry Ginger Mini Muffins (GF/DF!).
Carol Stillings 