Green Bean Casserole

My family will gather this year, as it has for the past several, for its annual Thanksgiving Fiesta. Seriously. My brother-in-law's wife, whose family includes some 22 aunts and uncles and assorted cousins, is a first generation Mexican-American. It is fiesta grande to the nth degree. And each year, I am responsible for the making/taking of the super-sized version of the green bean casserole. And I always feel a little plain by comparison. I mean, here I am-green bean casserole surrounded by such exotic fare as homemade tamales, hot spicy chicken dishes, or things with names like arroz or flan. I just can't compete.

But the thought of cumin-infused green beans doesn't seem right either. Then it occurred to me. God hasn't called me to be something different to everyone; but, instead, to be everything to the someones He's given me.

And it seems I've been called not to a hot, spicy, exotic role; but, rather, to that of comfort-giver, provider of warmth, familiarity, and sensibility-a life that just screams GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE.

So, this Thanksgiving, watch out! My kitchen will overflow with french-style green beans and cans of cream of mushroom soup. The scents of crispy fried onions and black pepper will linger in the air. Me and my green bean casserole. Bring it on.