Richie and I just watched Julie & Julia, the biopic about Julia Child, gourmet, and Julie Powell, the woman who cooks her way through the famous cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Julie Powell, a temp clerk, lived an uninspired life and looked to her love of food as a guiding light. She purposed to make it through Mrs. Child’s collection of 524 recipes in 365 days, blogging all the while (The Julie/Julia Project). Before I go any further, count this as a recommendation: watch the movie (also available on iTunes) or read the book. Warning: There are a few choice words in the movie, the book, and on the blog.
This is more than a chick flick. This is more than spectacular character acting (silver screen demi-goddess, Meryl Streep, portrays Julia Child). This is more than a glimpse into cooking history; Julia Child is THE woman who brought French gourmet to the average American table. It is more than a feel-good tale. This is better than Food Network. Trust a foodie!
WHY THE FUSS?
1. Real-life success and fairy tales actually do exist.
2. We all need to find our passions in life, whether they be hobbies or purpose or just a way to let off steam. For some, that may be cooking, tinkering with an old car, gardening, journaling, or whatever. God created you, the individual, with certain interests. The Great Creator made YOU creative in some way. Notwithstanding your spiritual purpose to spread joy and love and peace,
“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15, KJV)
you have a natural purpose.
Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10, KJV)
Those who built Solomon’s temple did so with their seasoned talents and abilities–they were skilled craftsman donating their expertise to His work.
“Then wrought Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whom the Lord put wisdom and understanding to know how to work all manner of work for the service of the sanctuary, according to all that the Lord had commanded.” (Exodus 36:1, KJV)
Whether it was their occupation or their hobby, it was something they did day in and day out, so as to become professional. God’s work is done with excellence and passion, right? Even the Apostle Paul used his occupation as a tentmaker to minister–an in-road, so to speak.
“And because [Paul] was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.” (Acts 18:3, KJV)
3. Therapy doesn’t always have to be on a couch talking about your job, your family, or other such stressors. It really can be in working with your hands.
“If a man is lazy, the rafters sag; if his hands are idle, the house leaks.”
(Ecclesiastes 10:18, NIV)
4. How rare for Hollywood to endorse strong marriages. Both women, Julia Child and Julie Powell, married loving and supportive husbands.
5. A reminder that YOU can happen to life and not let it happen to you. Take control of your emotions, of yourself. Decide that by the very simple act of choice, you are on a journey that is victorious, consistent, and doesn’t accept failure. You only fail when you stop trying!
“Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let not your hands be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well.” (Ecclesiastes 11:6, NIV)
At a very young age (before Food Network), I loved watching Julia Child on PBS. I’m only slightly embarrassed to say that at that age (and sometimes even now), when I cook, I “host my own show.” This movie was an extra treat for me–childhood sentimentality.
Next on my to-do list, try cooking Julia Child’s Boeuf a la Bourguignon. Am I looking for inspiration or therapy? Maybe, but a bite out of history, a good meal, and a hubby’s happy tummy make for the best recipe to success I can find!
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LOVE IT!! Sooo true! Sometimes we spend too much time trying to find a niche that is not natural to us. God made us all unique with distinct talents! It's so great to love what you are doing and feel connected!!
Amazing post Hevyn! I too am a serious foodie and fan of the Food Network AND Julia Child from the trailers alone I wanted to see the movie. After having read your post, Tasha and I will be seeing it this week!
On a more serious note, I believe if you do what you love, it will bring passion – and passion will bring both customers and contentment. A life without passion is not worth living.