*When steeping the leaves of tea, beware of scalding hot water for it rushes on too fast and zaps the life and flavor with its forcefulness; but also mind the luke warm water for it has merely nothing to say and can't hold it's own weight, unable to dance the degree of the tea.
*Acknowledge the quality of the tea. Give respect and appreciation for its worthiness. For excellence of choice attracts excellence of spirit. The leaves will shine with honest efforts labored for their taste. But also enjoy the mediocre when it's presented, the mundane and dull have their place on the ladder of life.
*Give full attention to the duration of the steeping. Each second reveals an answer. When distracted by annoyance (or beauty) and we lose time of the leaves, they bitter and bloat and ruin the cup. Be assertive and command control of the moment, for it will pass you by like the night train while you sleep if you tarry for just an instant.
*Love the beauty of the tea pot, lavish in the sweet curves of the vessel, the earthy toned clay and the delicate spout. Give thanks for its function, fitting perfectly with fashion. The sexy tradition of ceramics, soft hands creating simple useful forms. But don't get lost on the surface, for her love is in the taste of tea, the steaming aroma holds her soul. The tea pot is merely the silky lingerie wrapped around your lover; enjoy it but don't get too attached when it eventually drops to the ground.
*Careful not to force enjoyment upon your friends, exaggerating all the pleasures and meaning the tea will bring them. Allow the tea to speak for its self. Give space for the tea to talk. Not everyone will like it. Not everyone will like you.
*Observe when the tea spills, and who is spills on. And who gets upset and who laughs. For the tea yearns to explode from the cup, it wants to grace people with its cleansing liquid. An omen of sorts. Be grateful when she jumps out to kiss you.
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