This is from The Book of Awakening, Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have, by Mark Nepo. It is entitled Making Tea. Enjoy!
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If we stop to truly consider it, making tea is a miraculous process. First, small leaves are gathered from plants that grow from unseen roots. Then boiling water is drained through the dried leaves. Finally, allowing the mixture to steep creates an elixir that, when digested, can be healing.
The whole process is a model for how to make inner use of our daily experience. For isn't making tea the way we cipher through the events of our lives? Isn't the work of sincerity to pour our deepest attention over the dried bits of our days? Isn't patience the need to let the mixture of inner and outer brew until the lessons are fragrant and soothing on the throat? Isn't it the heat of our sincerity that steams the lessons out of living? Isn't it the heat of those lessons that makes us sip them slowly?
Yet perhaps the most revealing thing about all this is that none of these elements alone can produce tea. Likewise, only by using them together, can we make tea of our days and our sincerity and our patience. And none of it is healing without a willingness to drink from the tea of life.
* Slowly, and symbolic care, make a cup of tea.
* As the tea is steeping, be mindful of your life and how you bring your sincerity and patience to bear on your days.
* Sip slowly and feel gratitude coat your throat.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Tea Tasting with the Formula 1 Crew
I had so much fun hosting a recent tea tasting! Four friends and I gathered on a Monday afternoon (the day after the Formula 1 race) to inspect several different teas. The crew was an interesting mix: graphic designer, italian car mechanic, engineering student, PhD student, and me. A commonality among all of us was an appreciation for tea and chocolate (especially French Silk pie!).
We tasted 6 teas total. We started with a white tea, tightly hand shaped (in little spirals). This special tea was called 100 Monkeys. Then we moved to a tied green tea, with a red clover inside. This tea opened as it steeped to reveal the clover. I don't know much about this tea, as it was a gift from a friend who had visited China. The third tea was Gen Mai Cha, a green tea with toasted brown rice. The fourth tea was the lovely oolong, Bai Hao. The last tea in the tasting was an aged Pu-Erh. After reviewing each of these teas, we had a nice lunch. With lunch, we sipped Iced Wine tea.
The conversation was fascinating. I learned much about Formula 1 racing, and this year's political and safety issues with the race.
Thanks to my visitors for the wonderful company. I hope it can be a yearly event!
We tasted 6 teas total. We started with a white tea, tightly hand shaped (in little spirals). This special tea was called 100 Monkeys. Then we moved to a tied green tea, with a red clover inside. This tea opened as it steeped to reveal the clover. I don't know much about this tea, as it was a gift from a friend who had visited China. The third tea was Gen Mai Cha, a green tea with toasted brown rice. The fourth tea was the lovely oolong, Bai Hao. The last tea in the tasting was an aged Pu-Erh. After reviewing each of these teas, we had a nice lunch. With lunch, we sipped Iced Wine tea.
The conversation was fascinating. I learned much about Formula 1 racing, and this year's political and safety issues with the race.
Thanks to my visitors for the wonderful company. I hope it can be a yearly event!
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Tea and Horses
I've just returned from spending a weekend in one of my favorite places on earth: the Rafter M horse farm and therapeutic riding center. I have spent many happy hours of my life there!
On this particular visit, I was honored to host a tea party for volunteers of the therapeutic riding program. The riding program serves the physically and mentally disabled. The program is so inspiring!
As decoration, we used an antique brass teapot with a warmer (see photo) that is hinged so that it tips. We also used some of my friend's family heirloom plates and nut dishes. The tea party was lively and fun!
Also during this visit, I had a rare opportunity: time to sit and do nothing with my hosts. This is rare indeed, as running a farm means that there is always something to be done. However, on this particular Sunday, it was raining heavily and we sat on the front porch and relaxed. A nice surprise for us all!
That afternoon,the rain stopped and I was able to help with Goldie, a miniature horse (see photo). Goldie is learning to pull a tiny little cart. She's precious, and well mannered! She just doesn't like to step on dark spots in the road. >-)
Thank you to the Rafter M Therapeutic Riding Center for the service, kindness, and care it provides in our world!
On this particular visit, I was honored to host a tea party for volunteers of the therapeutic riding program. The riding program serves the physically and mentally disabled. The program is so inspiring!
As decoration, we used an antique brass teapot with a warmer (see photo) that is hinged so that it tips. We also used some of my friend's family heirloom plates and nut dishes. The tea party was lively and fun!
Also during this visit, I had a rare opportunity: time to sit and do nothing with my hosts. This is rare indeed, as running a farm means that there is always something to be done. However, on this particular Sunday, it was raining heavily and we sat on the front porch and relaxed. A nice surprise for us all!
That afternoon,the rain stopped and I was able to help with Goldie, a miniature horse (see photo). Goldie is learning to pull a tiny little cart. She's precious, and well mannered! She just doesn't like to step on dark spots in the road. >-)
Thank you to the Rafter M Therapeutic Riding Center for the service, kindness, and care it provides in our world!
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Treasured Tea Time
A week ago I was in sunny Arizona for a business conference. To my delight, I was able to sneak in time for tea (at Abbey Gardens) with friends. This was particularly special to me because I no longer see these friends as often as I would like. We're scattered across the US.
What a gift, truly, to spend an easy hour with friends at tea. Thank you!
What a gift, truly, to spend an easy hour with friends at tea. Thank you!
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Do Less with More
Drinking Picasso Soiree, a gift from a friend. An intensely caramel scented tea.
I'm practicing doing fewer things. This is tough for me, as I'm generally a "joiner" kind of gal. I like to volunteer and sign up for things! I also know well the discomfort of being overextended. So I'm working very hard to say "no" more often. My thought is that I will do less, but with more energy, more positiveness, more anticipation, more creative ideas. I'll have more of me to bring because I'm not spread in too many other places.
So far, so good - tho I have been challenged! For example, I've said no to a committee at my church. Instead, I said yes to a "greeter" role that requires no more of my time than an ordinary service.
This concept extends beyond my time, to my resources. I said no to a great eBay deal on my favorite china pattern (Old Country Roses) - and it was a sweet deal! However, if I bought it, then I'd have to store it, and I'm trying to downsize. I need the space (physically and mentally) more than I need the teacups. I can own less, but enjoy it more.
How can you do less with more? Wouldn't it be cool if Americans did this, in general? If we did less shopping, less buying, less complaining...and had more of our true, uncommercial selves to give?
I'm practicing doing fewer things. This is tough for me, as I'm generally a "joiner" kind of gal. I like to volunteer and sign up for things! I also know well the discomfort of being overextended. So I'm working very hard to say "no" more often. My thought is that I will do less, but with more energy, more positiveness, more anticipation, more creative ideas. I'll have more of me to bring because I'm not spread in too many other places.
So far, so good - tho I have been challenged! For example, I've said no to a committee at my church. Instead, I said yes to a "greeter" role that requires no more of my time than an ordinary service.
This concept extends beyond my time, to my resources. I said no to a great eBay deal on my favorite china pattern (Old Country Roses) - and it was a sweet deal! However, if I bought it, then I'd have to store it, and I'm trying to downsize. I need the space (physically and mentally) more than I need the teacups. I can own less, but enjoy it more.
How can you do less with more? Wouldn't it be cool if Americans did this, in general? If we did less shopping, less buying, less complaining...and had more of our true, uncommercial selves to give?
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Traveling with Tea
I'll be gone for a few days. Business trip. This trip requires special packing of some special tea. (I don't mind the tea bag variety once in a while, but not for a week.) Fortunately, I pack pretty light. So, that means I have room for my very own electric kettle (a small one) and a stash of tea. I wouldn't dream of using the in-room coffee maker to heat my tea water!!!
Which tea to take? Oh, this is a tough decision! I'm waffling between a green and an oolong. I think I'm leaning toward the green. It's a special one - part of a gift from my Mom at Xmas. She enrolled me in a tea club. Every 2 months, I get a new (premium) tea. It's so exciting! This particular tea is called Snow Water Dragon Tips. It's best brewed in a gaiwan (see photo), tho for the trip my beautiful gaiwan will stay home.
The tea will go in my carry-on, of course! Let my clothes get lost, but not the Snow Water Dragon Tips! (It's a unique tea - and expensive.) I've had funny experiences with carrying on my tea. Twice my bag has been searched. I'm not sure which looks suspicious: the tea itself or the teaspoon strainer that I use when I travel. >-)
Which tea to take? Oh, this is a tough decision! I'm waffling between a green and an oolong. I think I'm leaning toward the green. It's a special one - part of a gift from my Mom at Xmas. She enrolled me in a tea club. Every 2 months, I get a new (premium) tea. It's so exciting! This particular tea is called Snow Water Dragon Tips. It's best brewed in a gaiwan (see photo), tho for the trip my beautiful gaiwan will stay home.
The tea will go in my carry-on, of course! Let my clothes get lost, but not the Snow Water Dragon Tips! (It's a unique tea - and expensive.) I've had funny experiences with carrying on my tea. Twice my bag has been searched. I'm not sure which looks suspicious: the tea itself or the teaspoon strainer that I use when I travel. >-)
Thursday, May 19, 2005
Crash, boom, bang!
We're having an intense thunderstorm in the Midwest! It's loud and scary. I get anxious in storms. I always have. I can remember sitting on my grandma's lap as a child and having her sing "My Bonnie Sailed Over the Ocean" to comfort me.
As an adult, I sometimes still hide my head under a pillow when the thunder and lightning crash. And, I always indulge myself with a cup of my current favorite tea. I guess that's a reason to look forward to thunderstorms. Today, as it pours outside, I'm drinking a mint blend.
Often, by the end of my cup of tea, the storm has passed.
As an adult, I sometimes still hide my head under a pillow when the thunder and lightning crash. And, I always indulge myself with a cup of my current favorite tea. I guess that's a reason to look forward to thunderstorms. Today, as it pours outside, I'm drinking a mint blend.
Often, by the end of my cup of tea, the storm has passed.
Friday, May 13, 2005
Sun Tea Season!
With warmer weather and sun gracing the Midwest, I find myself in the mood for sun tea. Having said that, I must admit that I'm not a big fan of iced tea....at least not the Lipton bag kind. (Tho my Mom's sweet variety does taste pretty good at Sunday dinner.)
Today I made sun tea in the green variety - from my Hermes Orange green. It brews up to a lovely celadon color and tastes quite refreshing. Later this weekend I will give a new Blueberry tea (black) the chance to bask in the sun.
What I enjoy the most about sun tea is the sensory experience: watching the loose leaves dance up in the jar as it reflects the sunshine. Simple beauty at its best!
Today I made sun tea in the green variety - from my Hermes Orange green. It brews up to a lovely celadon color and tastes quite refreshing. Later this weekend I will give a new Blueberry tea (black) the chance to bask in the sun.
What I enjoy the most about sun tea is the sensory experience: watching the loose leaves dance up in the jar as it reflects the sunshine. Simple beauty at its best!
Monday, May 09, 2005
Today Is A Green Day (poem)
Today is a Green Day
Today is a green day. For tea, I mean.
The green will fill the gaps in between.
Green is full of life and light.
Green gently stirs the seedling’s might.
Tomorrow may be a black tea day.
I’m never sure until it’s underway.
Black tea warms my soul and feet.
Black tea inspires the artist’s heat.
A nice oolong is for moment’s mirror.
And conversation as friends draw nearer.
I save pu-erh for special desire.
Of earth and air and and water and fire.
Then to my humble knees I go.
To imbibe the sacred from long ago.
And last, for special celebration.
A white tea for our confirmation.
To tea I give my heartfelt praise.
To life and love, unfettered days.
Today is a green day. For tea, I mean.
The green will fill the gaps in between.
Green is full of life and light.
Green gently stirs the seedling’s might.
Tomorrow may be a black tea day.
I’m never sure until it’s underway.
Black tea warms my soul and feet.
Black tea inspires the artist’s heat.
A nice oolong is for moment’s mirror.
And conversation as friends draw nearer.
I save pu-erh for special desire.
Of earth and air and and water and fire.
Then to my humble knees I go.
To imbibe the sacred from long ago.
And last, for special celebration.
A white tea for our confirmation.
To tea I give my heartfelt praise.
To life and love, unfettered days.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
Wild flowers or weeds?
My husband likes to call weeds "nothing but misplaced flowers". Isn't life a lot like that? When something is in our way, we call it a weed. Even if it is something beautiful. Yesterday I was walking down the sidewalk and I noticed these lovely Brassica flowers. They're bright yellow. I imagine most of the car drivers rushing by didn't notice the pretty little flower, and those that did probably called it a weed. But this lovely little flower came home with me and is now glistening in the morning sun on the window ledge in my bathroom.
How does this relate to tea? I am reminded that most of our life is spent in everyday tasks. Working, eating, sleeping. We only have so many of the extravagant life moments (vacations, weddings, etc.) What if we turned the everyday into the extravagant? What if we all found the beauty in the simple wild flowers on the side of the road? What if every sip of tea were savored, rather than gulped? One of my favorite quotes comes from the Republic of Tea: "Sip by sip...not gulp by gulp." May you sip your tea slowly today!
How does this relate to tea? I am reminded that most of our life is spent in everyday tasks. Working, eating, sleeping. We only have so many of the extravagant life moments (vacations, weddings, etc.) What if we turned the everyday into the extravagant? What if we all found the beauty in the simple wild flowers on the side of the road? What if every sip of tea were savored, rather than gulped? One of my favorite quotes comes from the Republic of Tea: "Sip by sip...not gulp by gulp." May you sip your tea slowly today!
Friday, April 29, 2005
Chai at Infuze
This will be my last post about my tea adventures in Vancouver, BC. Ironically, I started this blog with the last day of my trip (Murchie's), and I'm finishing with the first.
After traveling 7 hours on the plane to get from the Midwest to Vancouver, I was ready to stretch my legs! My traveling companions and I set out for a walk in the mist. We stumbled onto the Infuze Tea House (photo below). It's a tea bar - kind of like a Starbucks, only specific to tea. The interior is mostly white with orange accents. A friend and I had the cardamom chai. In terms of quality, the chai was so-so...from a mix. It was warm and comforting. Another friend had a green oolong, which seemed to be good. This same friend pointed out a tea chocolate. I picked one up, and actually resisted the temptation to enjoy it until I got home where I shared it with my husband.
The confection was a combination of milk and white chocolate shaped into a thin leaf. The white chocolate was colored and flavored with green matcha. The flavor came through more than I anticipated, and it was nice!
The Vancouver Tea Adventure was a trip I will cherish!
After traveling 7 hours on the plane to get from the Midwest to Vancouver, I was ready to stretch my legs! My traveling companions and I set out for a walk in the mist. We stumbled onto the Infuze Tea House (photo below). It's a tea bar - kind of like a Starbucks, only specific to tea. The interior is mostly white with orange accents. A friend and I had the cardamom chai. In terms of quality, the chai was so-so...from a mix. It was warm and comforting. Another friend had a green oolong, which seemed to be good. This same friend pointed out a tea chocolate. I picked one up, and actually resisted the temptation to enjoy it until I got home where I shared it with my husband.
The confection was a combination of milk and white chocolate shaped into a thin leaf. The white chocolate was colored and flavored with green matcha. The flavor came through more than I anticipated, and it was nice!
The Vancouver Tea Adventure was a trip I will cherish!
Hotel George - Tea in the Bar
On Day 5, I met a friend for tea at the Hotel Georgia. We had tea in the hotel bar, which was not your average bar! It was nicely furnished and tucked into a quiet corner of the hotel. It had cheetah print wallpaper and leather chairs.
The photo below shows the teapots we used. Historically, I haven't been drawn to this style of teapot. I found the stainless steel lid to be a break in form with the rest of the body. But after using the teapot and viewing it up close, it grew on me! I like the size, perfect for about 2-3 cups of tea. I also like the shape of the body.
I chose a jasmine green tea and my friend chose a black vanilla. Both were high-quality loose teas, tho they were served in silk teabags. There was room for the tea to expand and experience the "agony of the leaf", so I was satisfied.
This tea was comfortable and cozy. I could imagine taking tea at an English pub. The food presentation was the nicest I'd seen in BC. The sandwiches were beautifully garnished! It was a wonderful afternoon treat, and I was especially blessed to enjoy it with my special tea friend!
The photo below shows the teapots we used. Historically, I haven't been drawn to this style of teapot. I found the stainless steel lid to be a break in form with the rest of the body. But after using the teapot and viewing it up close, it grew on me! I like the size, perfect for about 2-3 cups of tea. I also like the shape of the body.
I chose a jasmine green tea and my friend chose a black vanilla. Both were high-quality loose teas, tho they were served in silk teabags. There was room for the tea to expand and experience the "agony of the leaf", so I was satisfied.
This tea was comfortable and cozy. I could imagine taking tea at an English pub. The food presentation was the nicest I'd seen in BC. The sandwiches were beautifully garnished! It was a wonderful afternoon treat, and I was especially blessed to enjoy it with my special tea friend!
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