I am usually the last person to start a new trend. I saw "Final Table" being advertised as trending and something to watch. I hesitated before pushing the play button, but I'm glad I did. The show was more than just a cooking show, it was a life experience. I was reminded of three very important things.
1. America Has Culture
GiphyFinal Table showcased chefs from all over the world. The chefs came from all types of cultures and it showed in the way they cooked their food. One of the many American chefs said something that resonated with me and made me think. He said because he was an American he didn't have culture. I was grateful when it was time for them to cook American food. I won't spoil the binge fest for you, but it showcased American culture. Our history may not be as old as other countries, but it is a history. We have traditions and culture that go back to when pilgrims set foot on our soil. Part of our culture is the melding and binding of multiple histories. We shouldn't cheapen our culture because it is still growing.
2. Beauty Is More Than What Is On The Outside
GiphyThe chefs on the show were true artists. They created foods I could have dreamed of. Their menus varied from person to person and country to country. The artistry in the food was beautiful. While the look and presentation of the food was important, it didn't matter if it didn't taste good. There are things in life we think look beautiful on the outside but when you try them they are dry, raw or overcooked. Appearances are not all that matters because looks can be deceiving. It does not matter if it is food, a person, or a house. The beauty on the outside does not always reflect the beauty on the inside. The kindest most beautiful people I know are not what would be considered conventional beauty. It is from their hearts that beauty resonates.
3. You Have To Make Some Sacrifices To Get Where You Want To Go
GiphyThe winner (I won't say who) shared about their life experience. The person shared how all of the internships, long hours, and the tough parts of the job finally paid off. They worked hard, and it paid off. Cooking is not just a 9-5 job. It is a passion. It is something that they do because they are happy when they do it. That is what the chefs who rise to infamy do it for. The same could be said of any passion. As a writer I write without getting paid for it because I love it. I keep writing not because of the money or what everyone else thinks, but because it is my passion.
Life lessons come in all shapes and sizes. At times they can be found on your tv show. Other times they will come from your friends and family. The key is to take in all you can and be willing to learn. I think that my next life lesson will be learning to make some of those yummy dishes they made on the show. The show inspired me to cook beautiful food that tastes good and then maybe I will write about it one of these days.
