Would you like a cup of tea?

      I read a book about nonviolent communication, and came to a conclusion that I am not very good at figuring out what I feel and need, I have been poor at communicating my needs to others, and I have done it wrong most of the time. Then I read a book about self-compassion and found out that I have been too harsh on myself and should show so much more compassion and kindness to myself. Again something I have got wrong. Then I caught these judgmental thoughts, put them gently into an imaginary river, waved goodbye, and counted my breaths.
      On Tuesday my mindfulness teacher asked in our group what we needed in order to be the best self, and live the ideal life. The question seems to expect a profound and detailed answer. It probably needs time for deeper reflection. The answer that surfaced from our group was rather simple. Be present. Be thankful. Drink a cup of tea, or do something else that would invigorate. I wish it was really that simple. Sometimes it probably is. On that day my list included plenty of rest. I was super tired.
    On Friday I stood in a row with some other teachers and acted out a little funny song as part of our school's winter play. The kids and parents laughed. The applause was grand. Just like that the semester was over.
   On Saturday my youngest celebrated her birthday. It was a small family gathering, with my mom, sis, daughters, and nephews. I made some tea. Three different kinds. The two youngest didn't want any. When I saw the tea bowls, tea pots and tea cups on the kitchen cupboard, I smiled, and decided to take a picture. I may not always know what I feel or need, and I may not always express myself in the best possible way, but at that moment I knew I was happy because my family was around me, we had time, I was enough, and the tea was infused with love.

I celebrate the end of semester, the time with my family, and the cups of tea.

Would you like a cup of tea?