Live Journal- November 21st

A reflection on nourishment, masculine provision, and showing up for community

Four weeks ago at the Strathcona Market, I struck up a conversation with Theresa from the SAGE Seniors Association. She was occupying the community booth next to our stall, and I noticed the word ‘nutrition’ on her sign and felt called to ask what she was working on. We delved into food security for seniors, and I was immediately drawn to how I could help.

And today, just three weeks later, I found myself in a seniors’ home, ladling warm Nova Scotia-style chowder into bowls. I fed and nourished about 15-20 seniors. I joined them, and we ate together. There is something deeply human about sharing a meal across generations.

Soup is simple, and that’s what I love about it most. I glanced around the room and saw wide-eyed, smiling faces emerging between spoonfuls of hearty chowder. Occasional bursts of laughter broke out, and a few of the seniors talked about soups they loved to make. I didn’t just serve chowder; I catalyzed belonging. Food brought these people together, and my embodied presence held the container.

I have had several opportunities to embody the Devotional Chef archetype this year. From the trail building Signature Trip, to shucking oysters on Blind Enthusiasm’s patio, I have taken in some rich experiences, where embodiment, presence, and craftsmanship intersect.

It’s my 10,000 hours — a gift of generosity to the world around me, a primal form of providing for others. An act of service borne of love, connection, and shared humanity

.