I’m a math hater.  I don’t like it… mostly because I can’t really do it.  I have the most trouble with algebra because, as far as I’m concerned, when you put letters together they make words, not equations.  I just CANNOT wrap my head around why n + x = y.  Lame.

The only parts of math I can peacefully coexist with are percentages and most things related to geometry.  You need geometry to know how to draw and build things, and you need percentages to know how much of a discount you’re going to get on that really cute pair of shoes you’ve had your eye on.  Those things are important.  If you want to know how long it’s going to take Train A and Train B to make it to the station, don’t bother with algebra – just check the schedule.

Aside from discounts and drawing, my most favorite usage of math is when numbers translate into baked goods.  Ingredients must be measured correctly and the timing of how long the product remains in the oven has to be timed just right.  If it’s taken out too early, it’s too doughy – too late, and it’s too dry… and possibly inedible.

I’ve often heard that many who delve in the culinary arts know the food is ready simply by a feeling.  That “feeling” comes from a lot of time spent in the kitchen as well as the artist’s sense of knowing when their creation is ready to be presented and enjoyed.

I think life works the same way.  There are just some things in life that are all about perfect timing.  At least this is what we tell each other when we’re still waiting for the right person, the right job, the perfect house, or even a perfect, little baby to come along.  It’s all about timing.

But sometimes I just want to throw a rock at that perpetual clock so that it starts working properly.  I want it to finally be the right time for my friends and family (and even myself) to have our wants and needs fulfilled.

It’s past time for breakthrough to happen for many people I know and love as well as many people I’ll probably never meet.  I want to see this economy bounce back and see people employed again.  I want to go to baby and bridal showers for my friends who have been so faithful and deserve these blessings.  I just want to see those who have struggled not only get a well deserved break, but also get a great bonus blessing – the cherry on the cake.

Unfortunately, it’s not completely up to me or them to make breakthrough happen.  You can go on dates, apply for jobs, and shop for houses, but more than likely the “dream” won’t come to pass until it’s time for it to happen.  Timing – stupid, yet glorious timing.

But like any culinary artist knows, perfect timing produces ideal results.  For example, if it were up to me I probably would’ve been married 5 or 10 years ago and thank God it wasn’t completely up to me to make that decision because it would’ve been a wrong one.  Relying on God and relying on his timing has more than likely saved me from a lot of unnecessary heartache.

I’m not saying it’s been easy going to weddings and bridal showers – it’s taken superhuman strength to not stab myself or someone else with an hour d’oeuvre pick every time I go to one of these happy occasions.  However that pain, irritation, and loneliness is a small price to pay compared to what I could have gone through had I married the wrong guy at the wrong time.

Babies are another great reminder of the importance of timing.  The survival rate for premature babies is lower in comparison to those who go full term.  There’s a plan and a process and timing truly makes all the difference.

Everything is rooted in timing.  Whether or not you believe in God (I do), you know that we’re living on someone else’s clock.  And in a way, I’m glad we do because I’m pretty sure we’re not as smart as we think we are.

I’m hoping the clock will soon start ticking in my favor and in the favor of those who deserve the breakthrough they’ve been waiting and praying for to happen in their lives.  But I guess the best thing to do is to push forward because the sound of contentment is the only thing that will truly drown out that ticking clock.  And if that doesn’t work, then now’s a good as time as any to make a quick stop by the bakery for a practical (and yummy) lesson in timing!