“A cup of tea would restore my normality.” Douglas Adams
It is somewhat of a running joke in my family that my father drinks espresso exclusively, yet embraces the importance of teatime like no other Italian. He praises the English for this most civilized ritual of stopping everything at a certain hour during the day, and enjoying quiet, thinking time, around this concoction that is tea.
“There is something in the nature of tea that leads us into a world of quiet contemplation of life.” Lin Yutang, The Importance of Living
Over dinner a few nights ago, he once again encouraged me to do less and think more. “Take the time to do nothing,” he said. “To think, to chat with people around a cup of tea. Not necessarily people who are in the same industry as you are.” Indeed, he was encouraging me to embrace the concept of teatime.
“Tea carries within itself; knowledge, wisdom, and wellness.” Aniruddha Sastikar
Ironically, as the end of the year has been approaching, I have started to think about my goals for 2014. I have as of yet identified one – to find stillness and inner quiet. Perhaps with more teatime in my life, this will become easier. This is a very lofty (for me) and ethereal goal. What is inner stillness and quiet? I haven’t figured out how to meditate… so I do believe I may incorporate teatime in my day, starting January 1, 2014 (or maybe I should just start tomorrow…).
“Tea. I find that both settles the stomach and concentrates the mind.” Cassandra Clare, City of Bones
What do I need to implement this resolution?
I have a set of teacups and saucers, even a real teapot, from my grandmother’s Blue Danube dish set.
I have teaspoons.
I have both loose-leaf teas and various assortments of tea bags.
I have a water kettle.
Really, all I need is to make this commitment. To spend 30 minutes every day with a cup of tea, and my thoughts. Maybe with others, maybe not. 30 minutes to daydream, to think, to do nothing. 30 minutes to breathe. 30 minutes to strive for inner peace, stillness and quiet.
“My dear if you could give me a cup of tea to clear my muddle of a head I should better understand your affairs.” Charles Dickens, Mrs. Lirriper’s Legacy
Beautiful article Ada! I will be incorporating this profound wisdom into my own life. I know you said you already have an assortment of teas, but I thought I’d mention the brand David’s Tea. It’s Canadian, with a few locations in the U.S. My favorite is the Spiced Fig. When you pour out the tea, you can even eat the cranberries, almonds and fig left behind. It is delicious. Just watch out for the chunks of clove. 🙂