Picture this: I’m sitting in the dining hall after ordering my Taylor ham and cheese sandwich (NO EGGS), debating what to write about this week, and my friend suggested I write about eggs. I said, “Yes, that’s a great idea,” and now I’m here writing about eggs. It might seem like a mundane topic, but it got me thinking about my complicated relationship with these breakfast staples.
This summer, I decided I was going to stop hating eggs. I’ve never liked the taste, smell, or even thought of them, even though everyone around me seems to love them. I know they’re packed with protein and super versatile and would probably be a great addition to my diet. But I had to see for myself. I mean, I used to despise Brussels sprouts and mushrooms as a kid, and now they’re my two favorite vegetables. So, why not give eggs a fair shot, right?
With newfound enthusiasm, I set out on my mission, thinking maybe I’ll work up towards eating eggs on their own, eventually. I started making quiches that were basically 80% bread, cheese, and veggies, with just a hint of eggs. I even began ordering eggs on my breakfast sandwiches, hoping that mixing them with other flavors I enjoyed would do the trick. Despite my best efforts, I still couldn’t bring myself to like eggs. Now, you might wonder why I’m going on and on about eggs in this editorial. Well, there’s a valuable life lesson here, I swear.
Life is full of things that make us uncomfortable, like eggs in my case. But what I’ve realized is that you don’t have to force yourself to endure discomfort. Instead, you can have the power to turn the tables and make the uncomfortable parts more bearable.
Think of life like a breakfast sandwich. Sometimes, the central element—the egg, if you will—may not be to your liking. It could be a class you dislike, a challenging relationship, or any other situation that feels unappetizing. Just as I surrounded those eggs with things I like, such as bread, meat, and cheese, you can surround your discomfort with things you love. Fill your life with friends who lift you up, hobbies that make you happy, and moments of pure fun. These layers can help you appreciate the overall experience while making the tough parts easier to swallow. I told you there was a life lesson. You have the power to reshape your experiences and perspectives. You don’t have to force yourself to like something you don’t. Instead, fill your life with ingredients that satisfy you to bring happiness and fulfillment into your life, just as I tried to do with eggs.
Throughout life, your tastes, preferences, and circumstances can change over time, and what you dislike today might become your favorite tomorrow. So, as you navigate life’s buffet, remember that you can redefine your relationship with the less-than-appetizing aspects. Surround yourself with what nourishes your mind, and watch as discomfort turns into growth and the unlikable becomes just another ingredient in your journey.
