Tuesday Tea for Two

O DDS AND E NDS

I have a friend who enjoys her cup of tea every afternoon. Whether she is alone or with some friends she places her creamer and sugar bowl with her teapot, on a tray to serve tea. A little ceremony to make the simple act of taking tea, special. I thought this was a wonderful practice and always take the time to fill the creamer and sugar bowl when I serve coffee or tea. By my friends’ response, I know they are pleasantly surprised. I think our creamer and sugar bowls are meant to be used and enjoyed and not hidden in a corner cupboard to collect dust.

I love browsing, and scrounging for china. The treasures I find often are more numerous than the coins in my purse. But I take such pleasure in the hunt that I won’t be deterred by my lack of funds. In some ways, it is more fun to find something dear to my heart for a wee price. I sometimes pick a theme, like something with roses or pansies or butterflies. Other times I look for a lonely sugar bowl or a creamer or pitcher without its mate.

Y ou may wonder what would I want with miss matched pieces. Over time I find pieces that complement each other and make a charming eclectic set. Other sweet pieces are repurposed into useful containers for all sorts of sundry items: from pens and scissors to makeup brushes and lipstick or a holder for teaspoons. Some stand at attention on the window sill to add whimsy on a dull day.

T raditional or unusual I give all my precious finds a purpose and a personality. I think it is a lesson we can apply to the people we meet. Conversations can be more stimulating, when we join in with someone who is not quite our match. We can learn a new perspective on a mundane topic and be the richer for it. Whether it is china or friends, the variety they bring is what gives depth and dimesion to our lives.


Community is the fruit of our capacity to make the interests of others more important than our own. The question, therefore, is not "How can we make community?" but "How can we develop and nurture giving hearts?"
~ Henri Nouwen