The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself.
~Henry Miller
I was mindlessly putting my usual bananas and tomatoes in a basket at the food co-op when, just beyond the broccoli, I saw it. A blazing orange pepper—bright and perky, glowing with energy. I could not look away.
This perky pepper was making me smile!
And then I realized that the sight of this delightful vegetable was just another one of the “coming to my senses” summer surprises that I have been experiencing recently. Since early June, I have been surprised by my cravings for the colors, tastes, smells, and textures of certain foods. Especially vine-ripened tomatoes, black beans, Arborio rice, scallions, and avocado with tart plain yogurt; blueberries and strawberries; plus seriously crunchy lettuce and an Italian dressing that I am still in search of. (At this point, with four different kinds in my refrigerator, I may need to consult with the Diet Survivor Sisters to help me “make a match” to pin that dressing down!)
And I know, as the seasons change, I can expect more sensory surprises. Some will be pleasant, like the sight of plump pumpkins and brightly colored leaves. Others will be unpleasant, like the feel of temperatures below freezing and slushy, melting snow.
Opening to what each season’s moments offer, pleasant and unpleasant, we are fed and strengthened. Seeing, tasting, smiling, savoring—we wake up to the moments of our lives.
Have you had some “coming to your senses” surprises this summer?
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Nutrition therapists Amy Tuttle, RD, LCSW and Karin Kratina, RD, PhD provide no-diet articles and resources including “Stay Attuned: The E-zine for Nourishing Connections” at their Nourishing Connections website. www.nourishingconnections.com
