“‘A loaf of bread,’ the Walrus said, ‘is what we chiefly need’” – Lewis Caroll, The Walrus and the Carpenter
When I started writing my previous post about vision, inspiration and thought leadership, I considered making an analogy between inspiring people and the role yeast is playing in making bread dough rise.
This could have been a good metaphor, but making bread goes way beyond adding a few grams of yeast and a pinch of salt to a mix of flour and water.
The basic recipe is as simple as that, though many variations are possible. From a plain loaf to pistolets (I’m Belgian, QED) to bagels to flatbread and focaccia…

The whole process is a bit labor intensive. That’s why, at home, we use our bread maker machine on weekdays. In the weekends, however, I love doing the real thing manually.
Kneading is surely the toughest task. But it’s also the most important and for me the most relaxing one. It’s so satisfying to shape the dough with your own hands and then see it rise under your proper eyes.
Of course, the real reward comes when the smell of fresh baken bread starts wafting from the oven. Followed by the joy of tasting your creation and sharing it with your family.
So, baking bread is not (only) about using yeast to make the dough rise. IMHO* it is also a lot about giving love and passion. And getting something delicious and genuine in return.
Isn’t that a wonderful thought on this Valentine’s day?
Bake often, eat your bread fresh from the oven, and add oysters, pepper and vinegar to your own taste (says the Walrus).

(*) IMHO = In My Home Oven