Minestrone Soup

Before an incredible week-long, culinary learning experience in the Ligurian province of Italy some time ago now, I had a chance to wander around certain charming towns in Tuscany.  One of those towns, Siena, made a lasting impression on me – well, more specifically, a certain little café, and a certain minestrone soup.  The town itself was lovely – a step back into medieval Italy.  Amazing art and architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, vineyards, and hills.  I drank in Siena’s invitation to a slower pace of life, walking and noticing its magical details.  I suppose all food tastes better against this beautiful, sunbaked landscape, with vegetables nourished out of its rich, earthy soil.  As I sat in the tiny café, relishing the delicious soup, the words “soul-satisfying” were undeniable. That food could taste this good (and I come from a family of wonderful cooks!)– in a body, mind, and soul kind of way -was worth slowing down and savoring every flavorful spoonful. 

Of course, every metaphor is incomplete, and this is certainly true here.  Welcome to the Table invites you to come, pull up a chair (literal or online), to pause, and notice the rhythms and movements of the Presence of God in your heart, mind, and soul – with a safe, compassionate, curious listener and the ever-present help of the Holy Spirit.  Soul care through spiritual direction nourishes and offers sacred space for you to notice the questions, nudges, and feelings you find yourself facing in this season of life.  Like a soul-satisfying bowl of delicious soup, there is much to pay attention to in your infinitely precious life – much to savor, taste, and see, and often to wrestle through. 

Minestrone may not be available, but here is a link to a favorite family recipe!