Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Many times the Oatmeal Raisin cookie is overlooked. Some may think because it has raisins that it does not taste right. Others may not like the oatmeal and prefer to make chocolate chip cookies instead. Although chocolate chip cookies may be good, they are overused and overmade. The Oatmeal Raisin cookie is unique and a rarity in our household (usually I'm the one who has to make them.)As I look at all the ingredients involved in the cookie making process, the one that stand out to me is the salt. Without the salt, the oatmeal raisin cookie seems bland. Although you can't tell from looking at the dough, the salt makes all the difference.

This got me to thinking about the things that make all the differnce in our lives. I was recently reading a book titled Just Listen by Sarah Dessen. I won't go into all the details because you should read it yourself, but it was extremely thought provoking for me. For me the message was telling the truth and just listening to others and yourself. Many times, it is hard to be truthful to ourselves. Although things we think and do may not be outright lies, but is it really being truthful when we are holding back? The answer became clear: No. There have been many times in my life where I have not stopped to listen to myself or to others around me. I was preoccupied with what everyone thought. I was missing some of the "ingredients" and overlooked the qualities I already possessed.

I have given real thought to this and realized that I need to be more truthful, whether it is with myself or with others and just listen. Like oatmeal raisin cookies, people are unique and always have something to offer (even if it is raisins). We often overlook the goodness in our lives and focus on the things that will please other people or the negative. Making others happy is important, but I realized I have to be happy too! Anyway, I guess what I'm trying to say is enjoy the rare things in life. Take a chance and make Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. They want to feel included too :)