Ritual With Tea

 

"When tea becomes ritual, it takes its place at the heart

of our ability to see greatness in small things."

Muriel Barbery

When we are needing to relax and be refreshed, we often turn to tea as it can be a cultural experience, ritual, or a spiritual practice. It can be a way to respect the self and experience gratitude or an inspiration to create something new. Sipping tea offers pause in the midst of a grinding schedule.

During this festive season, we can invite a treasured friend to come by for tea, offering a ceremony by lighting candles and sharing hopes and dreams. Choosing to quietly sit with each other, eye to eye exchanges strengthen the bonds of the relationship. Not only is nourishment being shared, treasured memories are being created.  

With tea being a part of our regular routine, we create pauses in our day to take stock, redirect and instill peace of mind. Even the briefest moments of quiet can elongate a steady  stream of stamina. A sense of honor surfaces and appreciation for where we find our lovely selves living is filled with grace.

Recognized and Remembered

"They didn't recognize me," I repeat.

He stops in turn, my hand still on his arm.

"It's because they have never seen you," he says.

"I would recognize you anywhere." 

Muriel Barbery

Recognition is not the goal if we are extending our gifts and talents to better the lives of others.  We encourage and guide during work and play which builds our integrity and radiates our soul.  Our contribution may be a microscopic drop in a brilliant landscape, but without it, the picture would be  incomplete.

We all have the desire to be seen and heard which is important to our unfolding spiritual and physical lives.  If we believe observers are unaware of our efforts, we can choose to remember the Divine is always cheering us on.  Our good deeds do not go unnoticed and goodness is returned to us double fold in random acts of kindness from others.

If we allow our light to shine brightly, we will be seen or our energy will be felt.  We can create a presence just by being.  Look into the eyes of others and see if a trace of recognition is reflected.  Know that energy has been exchanged and duly registered.   On some level, we are recognized and remembered by many.

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