Month of Morsels
31-Day Challenge:
Dadgum, That's MetaSpiritually Good!
We have created a 31-day “Dadgum, That’s MetaSpiritually Good!” Challenge! Each day invites you to use one tiny, actionable way to ‘taste-test’ your spirituality. Each action is designed to take less than two minutes—perfect for busy folks who want a "”Dadgum MetaSpiritually Good” day without a three-course time commitment. Each week, we’ll include the activities for the week. Let us know how your experience goes with this!
A LITTLE BACKGROUND FOR CONTEXT!
What is Dadgum, That's Metaphysically Good Month?
March 1st is National Dadgum That's Good Day, celebrated annually to honor cooking, sharing delicious meals, and connecting with family. Inspired by author John McLemore's cookbook series, it is a day to celebrate food and storytelling.
We want to stretch the concept – and the length of time we celebrate! So we are officially designating March as “Dadgum, That’s MetaSpiritually Good!” month. To pay homage to the original purpose, we will be focusing on using food and cooking as metaphors for Spiritual Enrichment! So get ready to cook up some delicious recipes to feed your soul and your Consciousness!
What does Dadgum mean?
There are a variety of ways the word can be used, even as a statement of frustration or an ‘alterna-swear word’ (a way of swearing without using the ‘bad words’). But our favorite usage – and the usage we are embracing this month -- is to express powerful emphasis for something really good. And Dadgum it, that’s our story and we’re sticking to it!Prep Work: Setting the Stage for a Great Experience
Prep work in the kitchen and preparation for spiritual practices are remarkably similar, as both involve creating a "unique for you" environment, choosing your mindset, and focusing on the present moment to shift from a state of busy autopilot to calm awareness. As you begin this 31-day challenge, we invite you to:
- Create a Sacred Space: A good cooking experience requires setting a comfortable, quiet environment, tidy countertops, and reduced distraction. The same is true for handling this 31-day challenge. Choose a time each day, take a moment to breathe and clear your mind, and focus on the present moment as you work the challenge.
- Gather Resources: Any good chef knows the value of gathering the necessary tools and ingredients prior to a cook. As you go through this challenge, we encourage you to read through the activity of the day and gather anything you'll need, so you can focus on the activity itself from the beginning to the end.
- Set Intentions: In both cooking good food and experiencing spiritual enrichment, a successful experience begins with setting an intention, and approaching the task as a ritual rather than a chore—nourishing and grounding.
Get Ready for Week ONE! The Appetizers (Awakening the Senses)
Day 1:
The Grand Opening
Today, just notice one thing that makes you say, “Dadgum, That’s MetaSpiritually Good."
This could be anything -- a song, a sunset, a rainbow, a perfect cup of coffee. The value comes from the awareness -- the ability to feel an inner stirring as you experience something simple and commonplace. This reminds you that you don't just 'make time' for your spiritual practice ... your LIFE is your Spiritual Practice!
Day 2:
The Powerful Aroma of Peace
Stop three times today and take a sacred breath, as if you’re smelling your favorite meal or beverage.
Notice how it affects your senses, your muscles, and your inner peace.
Savor the feeling for a few moments before moving on with your day.
Day 3:
Palate Cleanser
Delete one digital "clutter" item from your life.
It can be as simple as removing an app you no longer use, deleting an obnoxious social media post -- to something a little more involved, such as clearing out your email inbox, tossing a folder of old stuff, or gathering a box of clothing you haven't worn in ten years!
The goal here is to let go of something that tastes sour to your spirit, or feel like it is past its 'best used by' date' and needs to go.
Day 4:
The Silent Snack
Eat one snack or meal today in total silence.
No phone, no TV, no book. Just taste.
Enjoy noticing how it tastes, the texture, the sensations. Be aware of how it feels to focus totally on the food you are eating, and the gratitude you have for the way your body can digest it.
Day 5:
Zest and Color on Your Plate
When you study the culinary arts, you learn how important plating is! In fact, a common phrase among chefs is, "You eat with your eyes first!"
Today, choose to "plate" yourself with power! Wear a color or use an item that feels bright and energizing to you.
Notice how wearing it affects your mood, your attitude, and your expectations for the day.
Be mindful of how others react to your "zest and color" selection for the day.
Day 6:
Kitchen Gratitude.
Gratitude is one of our foundational practices! We know you already use it in abundance, and this action gives you one more opportunity.
Just as every chef embraces the gratitude of those who enjoy his/her creations, make time today to thank your body for "cooking up" the energy to get you through the day.
Day 7:
Root Vegetable Energy.
Just as carrots, potatoes, and beets grow entirely underground, spiritual enrichment often occurs in the quiet recesses of our beingness.
A strong root vegetable requires deep roots to access nutrients. Spiritually, this represents developing a firm, grounded foundation, rather than just having superficial, outward appearances of growth.
Today, spend 5 minutes standing or walking barefoot [or, if you prefer leaving your shoes on, stand or walk with intention, visualizing yourself connecting with the "Earth Star Chakra." Notice the feeling of being grounded.
You've made it through the first week! Congratulations! Take some time to look back over your journal and notice how your spirituality has been enriched -- and how this has impacted you as you live your life! Then take a few minutes to add some comments at the bottom of this page, to share with others what you've experienced.
What made you say: Dadgum, That's MetaSpiritually Good?
Now you're ready to move on!
Get Ready for Week TWO! The Main Course (Substance & Strength)
Day 8:
Sunday Sundae
Nearly everyone loves an ice cream sundae -- especially on a Sunday! Think of your favorite sundae, and use it as a metaphor for your Spiritual enrichment.
- What 'flavors' [practices] would you include?
- What kind of topping would you use?
- What does the cherry on top represent?
- And don't forget the type of bowl you would use. How do you present your sundae to ensure it holds together and keeps its shape, even in the threat of summer sunshine melting it?
- And how are you savoring your unique spiritual sundae?
Day 9:
Simmering Kindness
Some main courses just taste better when you all them to simmer.
Today, send a "Thinking of You" text, email, or actual snail mail note to someone you appreciate. Be very specific about why they are important to you.
A note like this will truly marinate in their heart.
Day 10:
The Heavy Lifting
Bringing in the groceries is sometimes a heavy job!
We often carry a heavy load with worry, regrets, or negativity. It's time to unload that shopping bag!
Identify one "heavy" thought you’re holding onto. Imagine putting it in its place, or using a spiritual practice to transform it into something delicious. (For example, you can take worry, and use a breathing technique blended with a sprinkle of visualization and transform it into positive energy, seeing the best possible outcome.)
Day 11:
Nourishing Words
Think about your favorite cookbook -- You know the one we mean. The one with lots of handwritten notes, dog-earred corners, and stains from the ingredients used during a cooking experience! We go to these cookbooks to read the history of our own cooking, and to be inspired!
Today, pull an inspiring book from your shelf, open it anywhere, and randomly read what you're pointing to. Then spend some time reflecting on what that particular passage has to say to you about your spiritual enrichment.
Day 12:
The Slow Cooker
Some things cook better using a slow cooker method. This gives the food a chance to develop flavor, tenderize, and preserve nutrients. The same can be said of our Spiritual enrichment.
Today, move more slowly. Intentionally choose the longest line at the store or the slowest lane of traffic. Practice "slow-simmering" patience.
Day 13:
Inner Hearth
A hearth is the physical heart of a home, symbolizing comfort and safety. It's the place where friends and family gather, to connect, share stories, and support each other.
Today reflect on your heart center, as your Spiritual Hearth. Think about some ways the hearth could be a Spiritual metaphor for your heart center.
Visualize a warm light in your chest for 60 seconds, then visualize sending that light out into the world.
Day 14:
Kitchen Reflections
Are you still with us? Congratulations if you are!
Today is a good day to sit quietly and mindfully for 5 minutes of "Soul Kitchen" meditation. Think about all the "Mindful Morsels" you've devoured these past two weeks, and compare how you feel now to how you felt when you began.
Sit with it a few more minutes, then journal about this experience. Savor this reflection time in the Field of Infinite Potential!
Day 15:
Shake the Jar
Have you ever looked inside your spice cabinet, grabbed a spice, and wondered what it was used for? That's when you're inspired to try something a little risky -- different -- spicey!
Today, do something completely out of your routine to "re-season" your spiritual life. It doesn't have to be big. It could mean trying a new meditation practice, striking a new yoga pose, taking a hike where you've never been, listening to a YouTube or TedTalk about a cool topic, visiting a gathering from a different culture or faith tradition, etc. Journal the experience so you'll remember what it was like.
You're ready to move on to Week 3!
Get Ready for Week THREE! The Spice Cabinet (Variety & Zest)
Day 16:
The Salt of the Earth
Salt is a foundational culinary tool that does far more than make food taste salty. Its primary power lies in flavor enhancement, as it amplifies aroma, boosts sweetness, reduces bitterness, and brings out the natural savory umami notes in food. It also manipulates texture, preserves food, and regulates moisture.
From a MetaSpiritual perspective, our meditation practice is our salt. Today, experience your favorite meditation practice with a deeper mindfulness, reflecting on how this practice is your "salt."
Day 17:
Green Energy
A great meal often includes something green -- some kind of tasty salad that is fresh and healthy.
Today, connect with something green in nature—a plant, grassy field, or a tree. Spend enough time to create a connection -- some kind of communication with what you choose. Notice what this "green energy" feels like.
Day 18:
Spiritual Heat
Adding heat to a recipe typically means introducing spicy ingredients—such as chili peppers, cayenne, hot sauce, or spices—to create a piquant, burning sensation on the palate. This technique adds depth, complexity, and a "kick" to dishes, often balanced by fat or acid to enhance overall flavor.
Today, do 2 minutes of "spicy" movement (dancing, jumping jacks, or a brisk walk). Notice how the energy flows through your body, and how you feel amping up your energy.
Day 19:
Sweeten the Deal
Almost everyone enjoys something sweet, particularly at the end of a delicious meal.
Today, intentionally offer a sincere, unexpected compliment to someone who is special to you, and one to someone who is a stranger to you. Pay attention to how you measure out the sweetness (in terms of the specificity), and how it felt sharing it with someone close, versus how it felt sharing with a stranger.
Day 20:
The Infusion
Infusion in cooking is the process of extracting flavors, aromas, or essences from ingredients (like herbs, spices, fruits, coffee, or tea) by soaking them in a hot or cold liquid over time. It acts as a way to impart concentrated flavor without adding texture, enhancing dishes with subtle depth.
Today, infuse yourself in a favorite piece of music, and let the sound "soak in" like tea leaves. Pay mindful attention to how the music "feels" in different parts of your body, and how you respond to the music. What spiritual messages are you receiving through the music infusion?
You're ready to move on!
Get Ready for Week FOUR! The Potluck (Sharing the Feast)
Day 22:
Passed Recipes
Family recipes are very special, and are passed down through several generations. In fact, some people have been known to keep a recipe secret until they make their transition -- and the recipe is printed on their tombstone!
Let's not wait that long to share our "Spiritual Recipes!" Today, share a piece of spiritual wisdom or a special spiritual practice you've learned from one of your spiritual teachers with someone new to spirituality.
Day 23:
Clearing the Table
Part of the fun of large gatherings is when everyone gets together to share in the clean up.
Today, toss some scraps as you clear your inner table, forgiving yourself for one mistake or regret. As you release it, celebrate the joy with others who share your spiritual understanding.
Day 24:
The Chef's Table
The Chef's Counter or Chef's Table is a dining experience where guests are seated directly within or immediately adjacent to the restaurant's kitchen. These highly sought-after seats offer a front-row view of the chefs working in an open, live-fire kitchen. Quite often, the chefs interact with the table of diners, answering questions and providing special entertainment.
Today, create your own MetaSpiritual "Chef's Table" meditation. Visualize who you would invite to sit at your special table. What would you talk about? What unique interaction would you share with them?
Day 25:
Hidden Ingredients
One of the fun things at a community potluck meal is the variety of dishes that show up! Much of the conversation evolves around the various tastes -- wondering what hidden ingredients are included in a specific dish.
Today, as you experience the variety of activities in your life, look for the "hidden good" in a situation that feels frustrating. With any irritation, ask yourself, "How can I use this for good?" Live the motto: Bring the POISE of your Divine Nature to the noise of outer circumstances!
Day 26:
The "Dadgum, That's MetaSpiritually Good" Banquet
We talking feast! Those special gatherings around a table where everyone is at their best, the food is phenomenal, and the conversations are stimulating and enriching! That's a Banquet!
Let's imagine a MetaSpiritual Banquet! Today, imagine you are sitting around a table with several of your favorite spiritually-connected friends. Create your ideal "MetaSpiritual Menu" including what topic would be the hors-d'oeuvres, amuse-bouche, soup, appetizer, salad, main course, palate cleanser, and dessert! (Bonus credit: Share your ideas with us and we'll use it as a Café, Pop-Up, and/or Think Tank discussion!)
Day 27:
The Enlightened Buffet
Buffets are great for a crowd to enjoy! There is something for everyone -- and plenty for all! It's a wonderful risk-free opportunity to try something new and different.
Today try out a spiritual practice that is a little outside your comfort zone. [We shamelessly recommend any of our "Life-Changing Spiritual Practices" books, as well as our blog -- Spiritual Practices category.]
Day 28:
The Secret Chef
A favorite cooking show has well-known chefs being served a meal by a Secret Chef (someone famous in the industry). The challenge is for the chefs to identify who the Secret Chef is, by recognizing the food they have prepared.
Today, be a Secret Spiritual Chef. Do one act of kindness anonymously. Notice how you feel as you decide what to do, how to keep it anonymous, and what you experience during and after you do it. Journal your thoughts, and how it felt to anonymously inspire someone else to say, "Dadgum, That's MetaSpiritually Good!"
Day 29:
Today your challenge is to use your meditation time to go into the Silence ... with no outer stimulation ... just Silence. As you move into your meditation, set an intention to be aware of how your senses impact your meditation. Capture any insights and experiences you have. We discovered that when we are in a deep meditative state, our senses are heightened. We noticed scents we were not really aware of, and our inner eyes created very vivid imagery. Be ready for some unusual experiences!
Day 30:
The "Dadgum, That's MetaSpiritually Good" Mindful Meal
The very act of sharing a meal with others in total mindful and interconnected silence is an extremely powerful ritual. We invite you to choose between two activities for today's challenge. The first takes longer than the normal 10-15 minutes but will reap huge benefits. The second option fits in more with the other challenges of the month. YOUR CHOICE!
Option One: Meet with 2-3 other people who share your spiritual depth and interest, and plan a Silent Mindful Meal together. After the meal, have a 5-10 minute silent meditation to reflect on the experience, then share with each other about your insights.
Option Two: Today, celebrate the month of Dadgum, That's MetaSpiritually Good! Reflect on all the amazing 'recipes' we've created throughout this month for you to taste. Now it's time to reflect on the enrichment you have Divinely Ordered! Brainstorm a list of things you've experienced this month that truly made you say: Dadgum, That's MetaSpiritually Good!
Day 31-Day Challenge Completion Ritual
CONGRATULATIONS! You have completed your 31-day Challenge! Let's Celebrate with the "Signature Metaspiritual Recipe"
Every chef of any stature has a 'signature recipe' that is unique to them! As our closing challenge, we invite you to create your very own Signature MetaSpiritual Recipe. Here's how:
- Choose a nice piece of stationery and a favorite pen.
- At the top of the page, write [your name]'s Signature MetaSpiritual Recipe for a Soul Well-Fed.
- Instead of cooking instructions, identify the key ingredients for your recipe, that reflect the MetaSpiritual aha's you discovered this month. [Examples: 3 Meditation practices; 1 cup of gratitude; generous handful of community; ...
- Add any directions you would recommend, such as "Always start with a morning meditation, then add a healthy Tablespoon of gratitude mixed with love."
- Add any special "Chef Notes" to guarantee success: (Examples: Always allow the heart to simmer in silence before making a big decision; When a day tastes bitter, add a double-portion of self-compassion.)
- At the bottom, write a short note to your "Future Self" for the next time you feel spiritually hungry or depleted.
- Fold the paper and seal it in the envelope. Write "Open when hungry" on the front and tuck it into your favorite cookbook or your journal.
- Celebrate by enjoying one actual "Dadgum Good" bite of something you love—a chocolate, a berry, or a sip of tea—and officially declare your 31-Day Challenge Complete. End with a hearty affirmation: Dadgum, That's MetaSpiritually Good!
Download Your Official Master Soul-Chef Completion Badge!
We want to honor the work you’ve put into tending your inner hearth this month. You aren't just reading the spiritual recipe book anymore; you are a Master Soul-Chef, creating a life that truly nourishes you -- physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually!
Click on this link to download your official Master Soul-Chef Completion Badge! Please feel free to:
- Use it as your profile picture in our group.
- Share it on social media with a favorite "Aha!" moment from the month.
- Post it in your special Sacred Space;
- Or simply keep it as a private reminder that your soul is worth the finest ingredients.
Thank you for bringing your unique flavor to our community this month. The kitchen may be "closed" for this theme, but the Café doors are always open. We are so grateful to share the feast with you.
Dadgum, Time with YOU is Always MetaSpirituallty Good!
Your Soul Chefs,
Revs. Drs. Bil & Cher
