LOH #256: If I Were A Spice

 Spices make life and food interesting. They can turn something plain into something unforgettable. A simple dish can suddenly feel special just because of a pinch of spice. Each spice has its own story, its own character, and its own way of leaving an impression. If I had to choose one spice that could describe me and my personality, I would choose cinnamon.  *Image by [Derkien](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.istockphoto.com%2Fen%2Fportfolio%2FDerkien%3Fmediatype%3Dphotography&h=AT3wDdUnqdeUSQxTcdwVwOyS08Wz-urlFwB10kUTINPVAZ0cpjZshHd9bBVD0Eg3lWaiflbyEQNNO-qxuTzgGHHlHYJPH-BeT4ZQClxZS8KQkLYEoxMwtSidmyAdxic&s=1) from [Pixabay](https://www.istockphoto.com/en/photo/cinnamon-sticks-and-powder-gm153827056-19087797).* Cinnamon is not the famous or the hottest spice. It doesn’t burn your tongue like chili, and it doesn’t overwhelm you like garlic or pepper. But it has a unique way of making itself known. It is warm, comforting, and slightly sweet, yet it carries a quiet strength. That is how I see myself. I am not the type of person who walks into a room and instantly takes all the attention, but if you spend time with me, you will notice my warmth, my calmness, and the little spark of energy I carry inside.  *Image from [Marko Jan](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.istockphoto.com%2Fen%2Fportfolio%2FMarkoJan%3Fmediatype%3Dphotography&h=AT2pmIkvpAUZyGNVnxs9DUczPG9_HQsqep0dGgBusnXSuDtwJl2Xo5eVKvC4go9pMFhtmSJZYYi1nNbaczr-FtUvW2TlXU5LRIrc_dZw8SCzv2QcgdEZBEXXNtHa0pI&s=1) from [Pixebay](https://www.istockphoto.com/en/photo/cinnamon-sticks-and-powder-gm153827056-19087797).*  *Image from [Abu3lla](https://pixabay.com/users/abu3laa-14905111/) from [Pixebay](https://www.istockphoto.com/en/photo/cinnamon-sticks-and-powder-gm153827056-19087797).* One thing I admire about cinnamon is how versatile it is. It can be used in sweet desserts like cakes and cookies, in hot drinks like coffee or tea, and even in savory meals. It can blend in when it needs to, but it can also stand out when given the chance. That reminds me of myself. I can adjust to different situations, whether it is with friends, family, or new people. I know how to blend in when harmony is needed, but I also know how to stand up and be noticed when my voice matters. Cinnamon also brings back memories for many people. For some, it reminds them of the holidays, of family gatherings, of warm kitchens filled with the smell of baked pies. For others, it’s the taste of comfort on a cold night in a cup of hot chocolate. I want to be like that in people’s lives. I want my presence to be something that brings comfort, peace, and a good memory. I hope that when people think of me, they remember not only what I did, but how I made them feel safe, cared for, and understood. But cinnamon is not only about sweetness and warmth. It also has a sharp side, a boldness that makes sure it is not forgotten. That side of me shows when challenges come. I may look calm on the surface, but I have strength that helps me stand firm when life gets tough. Just like cinnamon keeps its flavor even when ground, boiled, or baked, I try to keep my true self no matter what situation I am in. I bend, but I do not break. Another reason I feel connected to cinnamon is its simplicity. It doesn’t need to do much to be special. A little sprinkle is enough to change everything. I think my personality works in a similar way. I don’t try to impress people with big gestures or complicated words. I prefer to be genuine, to show kindness in simple ways, and to let my actions speak more than my words. Sometimes the smallest things, like a smile or a kind word, can leave the deepest impact just like a pinch of cinnamon can transform a cup of plain milk into something comforting. So if you asked me what spice I would be, I would proudly say cinnamon. Warm but strong, adaptable yet true, simple but unforgettable that is how I see myself. Cinnamon doesn’t try too hard to stand out, but it leaves a memory in every dish it touches. In the same way, I hope to leave a trace of warmth and strength in every life I become a part of.