Several years ago on the popular television program “The Muppet Show” three of the puppet characters were on a rocket ship hurtling through space.  A voice announced over the loudspeaker:

“In two minutes we will reach the end of the universe and then the meaning and purpose of life will be revealed to you!”

The countdown began. The control room was charged with excitement and expectation.  Suddenly a bell clanged.  The three muppets jumped.

“What’s that?” one asked.

“It’s the dinner bell!” said another.  Then came a long pause.  No one spoke.

“What’s for dinner?” someone finally asked.

A response came from off camera:  “Beef stew.”

“Hmmm,” said one of the muppets.

A few seconds passed and then he left for dinner.  Soon the other two followed him. Now the control room was deserted.  The space ship was approaching the end of the universe.  The secret of life was less than a minute away.

But no one was there to receive the great revelation.  They had all gone in for beef stew.

~ I read this story many years ago in the late Jack Gorsuch’s book An Invitation to the Spiritual Journey. THE DANGER: That we misdiagnose our hunger pangs and feed the cravings of a lion with food fit for a kitty. THE QUESTION: How do you consciously identify and feed your deepest hunger?