I am in mourning, over a humble cup of tea.
The hubster and I have shared many cups of tea over the years.
After work, we have always made a point of having a cuppa together to catch up on the day’s news and events; it was “our” time. Sure, the kids would often interrupt but it was a special moment in our day, a chance to re-connect.
When we are pottering around at home, the question “Cup of tea?” does not just mean a cup of tea. It is a cue to come together and have a chat, or just “be” in each other’s company. It also requires more than a yes/no answer. It’s an invitation (command?!) to stop what you are doing, and participate in the tea making ritual. While one makes the tea, the other perches on a kitchen stool … and we wait for it to brew, before imbibing. It’s relaxing. It’s therapeutic. It’s so much more than a cup of tea!
We’ve shared cups of tea at the dining table, on the couch, in the garden, on holidays, on the beach, on cruise ships, in caravans … anywhere, anytime … a cup of tea meant “home”, no matter where we were.
A few weeks ago the hubster got sick. He had been drinking more tea than usual at the time, including herbal teas; and as a result, he now just can’t face tea. (I completely understand – I got gastro once after drinking a chai latte, and since then I can’t stand even the smell of chai!)
Sure, he will still make me a cuppa after work, or even join me with a glass of cordial or even coffee in hand. But it’s just not the same. I can’t believe how much I miss hearing “Cup of tea?”, even though there were times when it interrupted what I was doing and was not always fully welcomed or appreciated!
For 25 years of marriage, and even a year or two before that, the humble cup of tea has united us. It is part of who we are. And I am devastated by its loss, and praying it is only temporary.
I really hope he overcomes his distaste for tea soon – as you can see, it’s so much more than a cup of tea to me!
What’s your special thing or cue for spending quality time together?!