Cooking Shows

Two of my favorite channels are; The Food Network and The Cooking Channel. It’s nonstop cooking shows. I’m inspired by new ideas and I attempt recipes I’ve never done before.

Some of the chefs appear very friendly and welcoming. They explain clearly what they are making and it’s easy to follow their recipes. It inspired me to do my own cooking show - at least that’s what I like to call it. I’m having loads of fun creating dishes for the camera. Having a great staff helps. There’s one young lady filming/editing the episodes and another fills the role of an assistant. Don’t I sound fancy with a crew and all? They work for food, so it’s in my budget. They make filming fun.

Last night I was watching a biography of one the celebrity chefs that usually acts as a judge on cooking competition shows. One thing I observed about these competition shows is the judges aren’t very nice. They spend a majority of the time with a frown on their faces. What are they trying to accomplish with those frowns? Is that supposed to be their serious face? They come off mean and abrasive. When they do smile, you see their bright personalities shinning through. When they have constructive criticism and deliver it with a smile the constants seem to receive it better.

I’ve said all of that to make this point – this particular chef/judge was being profiled. They showed her softer side with her staff at one of her restaurants. She seemed so nice. She smiled and she was absolutely delightful. When she wasn’t judging she was sweet and approachable.

Hmmmm . . .

When I’m not being judgmental I’m sweet and approachable. Maybe that’s why the Bible says in Matthew 7:1 “Judge not, that you be not judged.” I know that when I’m misjudged it hurts me especially when I’m not asked directly about what’s on my heart or what I’m thinking. I try very hard not to judge. It’s not always easy. Matthew 7:1 helps me to remember.

Now I realize on a cooking competition judges are necessary. They are there to do a job and pick a winner. It would be nice if they did it with a smile on their face (especially when they try to fool the competitors in thinking they did badly).

As for me, when I find I’m judging – I repent and ask God to forgive me. I pray for that person and pray for God’s blessing in their lives.

I think I’ll leave judging to the experts.

© Nadine Zawacki 2011