Encouraging Treats

Exactly one year ago, I was privileged to attend one of the events of Legend Hotels International Corporation (LHIC): “Iron Chef Apprentice Edition”. I got excited when I received the invite from one of the event coordinators, because I love watching cooking shows and competitions. There’s just something nice about seeing chefs excel and express their personalities, knowledge, passion, and creativity in the meals they prepare. And of course, it is always a delight to see the meals plated beautifully.

One of the hosts started the program with prayer and explained the objectives and mechanics of the contest afterwards. One of the things that I really appreciated about the LHIC’s Iron Chef was the opportunity to encourage the kitchen staff of the company. Surprisingly, the staff was the main highlight of the event because even though they weren’t professional chefs, they were chosen to participate and compete in this event.

Upon entering The Legend Villas’ function room, I was warmly welcomed by the staff, hosts and judges of the event, along with the other guests.

While waiting for the program to start, they served us these refreshing drinks and a plate of sisig lumpia (This was really delicious especially when dipped in vinegar with labuyo).

Each team was tasked to prepare four dishes that incorporated the secret ingredient (Chicken) and they were instructed to finish preparing all of the meals within two hours!

I watched each team work hard and coordinate well with their respective members. It was exciting because as we observed all the teams, we noticed that they had different approaches, ideas, and presentations. One of the teams even entertained the crowd by cooking with fire in one of their pans.

Honestly, at that time, they looked like professional chefs. For some reason, they were confident in what they were doing and although they were challenged and pressured, they managed to successfully finish the dishes on time. After two hours of preparing and cooking, the dishes of the different teams were reviewed by a distinguished panel of judges: Ptr. Warfil de Leon, Ms. Luchie Callanta, and Ms. Dang Uy Koe. I also had the honor of tasting each dish, along with other food bloggers.

After going through all of the meals prepared by the teams, the judges finally announced the winning team.  At the end of the contest, one of the judges gave a short speech about giving our best in whatever work we do because we know that we are working for the Lord. He then closed us in prayer and thanked God for the learning experience, fun time, and for the participants, that they would continue to grow and excel in their field of work.

I went home that day inspired because I witnessed how this event encouraged the kitchen staff to excel more in cooking, preparing meals, and even serving others through culinary skills. The organizers of the event saw the potential in these people and they intentionally gave them an opportunity to grow and become the best cooks/chefs they can be.

Pastor Peter Tan-Chi once said “When you look at people, don’t look at them where they are today, but look at how they can become through Christ in the future.”

I’m learning to use my words and actions towards others wisely, so that I may also encourage them to be the best they can be for God’s glory. If ever you’re in a situation where God is prompting you to sincerely appreciate, help, or encourage someone, don’t hesitate to do so. :)

It says in Hebrews 3:13, “But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called Today…” :)

Thank you to the organizers of the Legend Hotels International Corporation’s Iron Chef Apprentice Edition. I enjoyed my time with you. May God bless you more and more. :)

Encourage yourself one treat at a time. :)