A good cook will never stop watching her pots.
Is what you said in a cast iron voice.
Frying eggs and turning bacon
The kitchen was your domain.
You moved there with ease.
You said
Never measure
Only know
That you will need a pinch or a dash.
Sometimes it’s sugar.
Sometimes it’s salt.
Taste everything.
Generously mix and stir.
Cook from your heart.
Sometimes you will need to grab hot things with your bare hands.
Do not let go and move fast to set it down.
See my hands,
A callous for every time I had to do this.
I want you to remember to pray over your food.
Think of the ones you love.
Your food will taste better.
Save the bacon grease and don’t let the grits get cold.
I am older now.
I stand in my kitchen and I remember
your kitchen was a pulpit and my sanctuary.
You cooked to survive and I learned from you.
I felt like I was in the kitchen with you, watching you learn and absorb life lessons.
Lovely, Teresa, simply lovely. Thank you.