As much as I enjoy adventure in some areas of my life, tasting new foods isn’t one of them. I’m content with a fairly routine diet. I realize I had to try the foods I like now at some point to determine whether or not I like them, but I’m typically okay with sticking with the familiar.

I started to expand my eating horizons when I began travelling regularly, mainly because I didn’t want to offend anyone hosting me as a speaker or trainer. In the process, I’ve found some new foods I like, so I’m handling new foods with new tastes with a touch more optimism.

When preparing to travel in Israel, I knew I wanted to taste the flavor of the country. And I did…

 

Shawarma (including hummus and tahina) and freshly-squeezed pomegranate juice in the Moslem Quarter of Old Jerusalem.

Shishbarak at a Jordanian restaurant near Tiberias.

Falafel at an open market in Quryat Shmona.

And finally…very strong Jordanian coffee! In case you don’t know me well, I’ve declared repeatedly I’m not a coffee drinker, but I must admit, I liked it! It was really strong, and I’m not sure I’ll start a habit of drinking coffee, but I’m glad I tried it!

I’m glad I tasted each and every food I tried. The new tastes deepened my experience and appreciation for the diversity in Israel. And I’m reminded…God wants me to explore what he offers me. I might not like every flavor, but I’ll certainly savor the experiences he leads me through.

Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. Psalm 34:8