The need for purpose and meaning in life.

A dear friend of mine who is also a baker made a comment on facebook that brought some inspiration to me today.  She mentioned in her post how thankful she is to have meaning and purpose in her life. 

As a former pediatric nurse, I have always longed to help and nurture others.  My passion was to help the sick and less fortunate, and the greatest reward I earned in my career was seeing those children recover and regain strength.  Unfortunately, there were also times when I questioned how such tragedy could exist in those that are so innocent.  The senseless sufferring and loss of those that were so beautiful yet weakened by illness or injury, but so very loved.  It broke my heart, many, many times.  As a matter of fact, the reason I am no longer a nurse is because I didn't believe my heart could take any more of it.  It is such an emotionally exhaustive career, not just for nurses, but for all of those that work in the health care field.  I admire and praise those that have the strength to continue on in the field.  Their work is so under-appreciated, so if you have the opportunity, hug a nurse, or a doctor, or a medical assistant, or just a simple smile or a "thanks for what you do" to lift their spirits and help them to continue on. 

My move to the bakery scene here in Wichita, I believe was also inspired by my need to help and uplift others.  I love the fact that I can also touch lives in a positive way through my baking.  Whenever I bake a birthday cake, wedding cake, pastries, anything really, it brings me such joy.  I love the fact that I can be a part of such significant life events, such as marriage, anniversaries, first birthdays, 50th birthdays, and more.  I am so grateful for the talent God has blessed me with.  Trust me, I take no credit for my baking abilities, it is all God!  When a customer told me that my croissants made her cry because they are so good, or when a young mom told me that my dark chocolate espresso cupcake was better than se*(you know what word I mean;-)  I felt truly honored.  I baked a peach cobbler for a young lady for her husband's birthday and he emailed me telling me in such expressive words how amazing it was.  All of these build up to my firm belief that there is a great purpose and meaning to being a baker, and I cherish every second of it.

Until next time,
Angie