Across the World, Right at Home

This picture is from a recent tea party where two little girls were brought together over tea. The two played with this tea set that was carried so thoughtfully from China as a gift for my niece.  I'm struck by how deeply tea is part of the world's heritage, party of the unique yet global experience of these two children. 

Tea is one of the oldest items of trade between West and East.  I find that by understanding tea's prominence in many of the world's cultures, I am more attentive and appreciative of the cup that I sip and the profound impact it has played on my path, and the path of all humanity.

These two little girls got their starts in very different places.  Yet they already have so much in common, including tea!  The little one from China comes from a culture with the oldest connection to tea in the world.  I hope to learn more of that with her.  The little one from the Midwestern plains will some day inherit a set of china passed down from her great grandmother.  Despite their young ages, both have attended several tea parties. 

Tea is such an amazing substance.  Simple water and leaf that forms a stream that flows round this world and pulls us together for contemplation, celebration, and connection.