I came across the popular story of Daniel again recently and it made a fresh impression. After Daniel’s decision not to eat from the Kings table, he was inspired to go on a vegetarian diet. That diet meant he would be on vegetables and water exclusively for 10 days. Afterwards, the results prompted the King’s aid, totally impressed by the results, to exchange the supposed luxury meals to vegetables for all other trainees in the King’s court.

Vegetables are known to provide nourishment for our bodies but before we focus on the food choice we first have to acknowledge the discipline he showed. For ten days, he walked past every type of meal, offering something for every taste bud but he refused to give in. He was disciplined enough to stay the course and achieve his goal.

I have underestimated the power of self-discipline in what I eat. Like Daniel, to decide to eat a certain way and stick with it is real power. We can enjoy vitality only when we are determined to change our habits in pursuit of the results we desire and stick with them through every kind of attraction or distraction. Imagine how much power you have to say no to the things you do not think you should be eating.

It doesn’t matter how big or small the decision is, you can stick with it. Stopping a habit or starting a new one… I can and I believe you can to.

I’m having Vegetables.

It doesn’t have to be boring and tasteless. Here’s a colourful plate of Cabbage, Pear, Cranberry and Radish Salad. It’s sure to nourish and vitalize.

Recipe: Servings for 2

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped cabbage
• 2 white radishes
• 2 pears
• 1 stick carrot
• 1 cucumber
• A handful of dried cranberries

For the dressing:

• 3 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Tbsp balsamic Vinegar
• 1/2 Tbsp honey
• Pinch of salt

Steps:

• Toss the vegetables and fruits together in a bowl;
• Whisk the Oil and Vinegar together;
• Add honey and salt;
• Drizzle over the salad.