Satisfaction

Leeks

Rice and beans

   sauteed leeks and carrots

   basmati rice

   pinquito beans

   kale

   tomato paste and water

   olive oil, salt, paprika, Mexican oregano

Hi Winnie and Steve,

I know you guys have always liked to keep life simple.  Winnie, remember when you were thinking of making a little cotton uniform so that clothing would not have to be associated with change and choice each day?  While that idea never took off,  it does seem that unlimited choices do not end up making us more satisfied.  A recent television program reporting on a global survey said the Danes were the happiest people in the world.  When interviewed, most Danes said they believed this was true because they didn't have unrealistic or high expectations.  They believed that high expectations led to more disappointment. The Danes also said they preferred to think of their state-of-being as contentment or satisfaction more than happiness.  Seems like a simple and basic approach to life.

Speaking of satisfaction -- we went to a potluck at Blue House Farm the other night. The simplicity of the evening and the camaraderie were very satisfying.  We also got to eat some of the lovely veggies from the field.  The young interns from Blue House Farm, Pie Ranch and Green Oaks Creek Farm were present.  For these interns, working on the farms seems to have resulted in a full spirit and satisfaction.  Many in our culture would consider this type of work with long hours of manual labor and not great financial gain something not to be pursued. But it appears that vegetables aren't the only things being cultivated -- it seems satisfaction is being cultivated too!  In a modern world, I think this model of satisfaction is really worth pondering.  I just read a great quote by Ben Stein -- "They say that falling in love is wonderful, and that the best is falling in love with what you have."  I'm sure this is also tied to satisfaction.  I know you think of these things often. If a rice and bean dish can be thought of as satisfying -- this one was.

Thinking of you.  Donna