What truly touched my heart the most was hearing Darius open up about how he discovered his passion. He shared a moment that was both vulnerable and powerful—during a therapy session, the therapist asked him a seemingly simple question: “What are your personal interests?” And in that moment, Darius couldn’t come up with an answer. He realized he didn’t really know.
That question stayed with him. Later that day, he spent six quiet hours alone in his room, just reflecting and soul-searching. No distractions, no noise—just him and his thoughts. And during that time, something clicked. He remembered the joy he felt whenever he was in the kitchen. The simple act of cooking had always brought him peace, excitement, and a sense of purpose. That’s when he knew: his heart was truly in the kitchen.
From that moment on, Darius began building his dream, even in small ways. Living in an apartment in Chicago with limited space and resources didn’t stop him. He went out and started shopping for utensils and ingredients, determined to learn and grow. I remember him telling me how he once had to mix cookie dough in a pasta pot because he didn’t even own a mixing bowl. But that didn’t discourage him—in fact, it only fueled his passion more. His dedication touched me deeply.
He told me, with such clarity and excitement, that he wants to become a chef one day. Hearing those words filled me with so much pride and joy. As a mother, there’s no greater feeling than seeing your child find something that lights up their spirit. I immediately promised to give him some of my old kitchen tools—things I’ve used and cherished for years—so he can continue building his culinary journey.
This experience reminded me of something important: sometimes, the answers we’re looking for are already inside us. We just need to slow down, listen, and give ourselves permission to explore. It doesn’t matter where you start. What matters is the passion, the love, and the willingness to keep going—even when the tools are humble and the path is uncertain.
I hope Darius’s story encourages anyone out there who’s still searching for their “thing.” Your passion doesn’t have to be big or flashy—it can be something as beautifully simple as cooking meals for the people you love. And sometimes, that’s where the deepest joy is found.
