Have you ever reminisced about the times when you visited your grandmother's house and everything was made with love? The food was cooked with meticulous care and you relished the fruits of her labor. Your grandmother would sometimes impart her knowledge by observing and conversing with you, allowing you to create a recipe that you would cherish for years to come and even pass on to future generations. Unfortunately, not everyone is fortunate enough to have such familial support, and we must do the best we can with what we have. It can be disheartening when loved ones suddenly depart from this world, leaving us feeling lost and unsure of what to do next. However, talent, care, and courage can emerge from the most unexpected places.
In "California Soul," Keith Corbin recounts how he had to start anew and weather the darkest and most tumultuous times of his life to achieve his current success. He recalls a time when his own grandmother grew everything around her house. Being incarcerated for robbery can lead to turbulent times where simply representing where you are from can result in danger, but it can also make you yearn for home. Chef Keith Corbin persevered through the toughest of times just to survive. When things became too overwhelming or lonely, he would reminisce about his family and attempt to recreate meals from memory. True soul food is a testament to the fact that hard work can result in a delectable meal using the most inexpensive and humble ingredients like small cuts of meat and vegetables, and a hearty chili with full-bodied flavor. Keith Corbin's grandmother made a significant impact on their community by feeding, nurturing, or simply giving attention to all the children in the neighborhood to maintain a balanced order.
Liz Hauck established Homemade with the heartfelt purpose of fulfilling her father's wish to help the local community by teaching them cooking skills. As a Spanish teacher who had lost her father, Liz had to find a way to connect with the kids. Every week, she would purchase groceries and educate kids about nutrition and cooking. This was especially significant for residents of the East Coast who often lacked access to fresh produce, unlike those living in California.
Performing simple acts of kindness without overthinking can be tremendously life-saving. It can be as simple as preparing a meal or baking a cake. The thought and effort behind it are worth more than anything, even if we don't anticipate anything in return. Sometimes, doing things that our loved ones enjoy can help us find closure. It is always a proud feeling to give something to someone and see how it can help them