The Two Hungers

Andy and I have a trip to South Africa planned for later this year and while researching I came across a piece about the San People (Kalahari Bushmen) of Southern Africa. I learned that they have lived in that part of Africa for more than 20,000 years. One of their philosophies really spoke to me:

“The Bushmen in the Kalahari Desert talk about the two "hungers". There is the Great Hunger and there is the Little Hunger. The Little Hunger wants food for the belly; but the Great Hunger, the greatest hunger of all, is the hunger for meaning.

There is ultimately only one thing that makes human beings deeply and profoundly bitter, and that is to have thrust upon them a life without meaning.

There is nothing wrong in searching for happiness. But of far more comfort to the soul is something greater than happiness or unhappiness, and that is meaning. Because meaning transforms everything into a more beautiful and elevated form.

Once what you are doing has for you meaning, it is irrelevant whether you're happy or unhappy. You are content - you are not alone in your Spirit - you belong.”--Laurens van der Post

I realize not everyone will understand that I find meaning in my life from making beds, cooking, hosting, facilitating and paying attention to the details that will enhance my guest's experiences and memories when they stay with us. You don't have to get it, but for me, there's no denying that's who I am.

I remember in the seventh grade, we had to take these vocational assessment tests that were supposed to find out what we were interested in and maybe even tell us what we would be good at. I can't really remember, except for one question on the survey: "Rank the top three careers, in order, of where you see yourself in the future," followed by a long list of options.

I was certain I was going to be a writer. A journalist. However, this is how I answered the question:

1. Chef

2. Catering

3. Innkeeper/Hotel Manager

Because those sounded like the most fun to me.

As I prepare for your visit to the Li'l Kitchen and the Hidden Cottage, I promise I will do my best to create a memorable and comfortable stay, and I will work hard to create dishes to satisfy your "little hunger."

And while I am doing these things, with the greatest intention in every detail, I will be satisfying the "great hunger" in me.

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