
"Though April showers may come your way, they bring the flowers that bloom in May."
I've been hearing this line going through my mind today, relishing the rain we're getting, but also soberly reflecting on the deeper message, that even though we may face gloomy skies (literally or figuratively) now and then, how good it is to keep up hope for the beauty that will come. I tend not to share too personally in this space, but friends, I wanted to let you into what's been on my heart and mind the past couple days. I hope you don't mind.
Life certainly throws you some surprises sometimes, doesn't it? Like this cold rain-and-thunder-and-lightning storm that comes of the heels of a gloriously warm and sunny Easter weekend. Or like the sudden illness that hospitalized my mother thousands of miles away from home yesterday. Or like my brother being hit by a car as he was bicycling, also yesterday. There are the happy, carefree days, and then there are the days when you realize how fragile life is and you just want to gather your loved ones together and thank God for them.
I'm so thankful today for the safety and health of my family. And, I'm even more thankful that even if they weren't safe or healthy that things would still fundamentally be okay. I'm reminded of something so comforting:
Clam and Radish Egg Drop Soup
Makes 2-3 servings
1 1/2 cup daikon (or Korean radish, 무/mu) in 1/4-inch slices, cut into half-moons
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
4 cups water
1 (5 oz.) square tofu, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices and then into bite-sized pieces
1 (6.5 oz.) can clams and their juice
2 Tbs. Korean soy sauce for soup (국간장/guk ganjang)
1 tsp. roasted sesame oil
salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, lightly beaten
3 green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
Place radish, garlic, broth, and water in a medium-large pot. Bring to a boil over high heat, and cook until radish is not quite fork tender. Reduce heat and add tofu, the clams and their juices, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir gently and let tofu heat through, then slowly drizzle the egg into the hot soup. Season to taste with salt and pepper. About a minute before serving, add the scallions and let them heat up just until they begin to wilt. Serve soup with steamed rice and kimchi.