I’m not sure why most American’s don’t value a good cup of tea as much as the rest of the world. There are a few out there that do – no doubt. But they seem to be few and far between. Probably recent immigrants.

Coffee seems to be the vice of choice here in the states. And most of the time it’s slurped down while speeding around in our car or while frantically pecking away at our keyboard as we stare into the abyss of our screens.

What about the conversation? (In my best elevated British dialect) What about setting time aside for a spot of tea? I’m pretty sure wars have been won and peace has been made over a cup of English Breakfast. I’m almost positive the brilliant minds of the past have imagined life-changing innovations and inventions during “tea time.”

You mean we can’t stop down long enough to see the importance and significance of that? Sure we can. We all can.

It’s not just tea. It’s so much more. That’s like saying football is just about bobble-headed men running around a field with lines on it in tight pants tossing around a prolate spheroid ball.

It’s about slowing down and taking a step back to see the big picture. It’s about relationships with others and the Love one puts into maintaining a healthy one. It’s about perspective, planning, problem-solving and sharing. And relishing the moments in front of you. Tasting (literally and figuratively) the fruits of what life has to offer us. It’s about connecting, feeling and pushing through – but fully feeling – emotions.

It’s about tea. And you. And me.

When I hear some one ask me if I want some tea, I hear them saying to me, “Do you have it within you to slow down, take yourself out of what you’re currently doing and connect with me?

Whether I want the damn tea or not, I have to say “yes” to that. Who couldn’t?

But, what the hell do I know?

I’m just an American who likes tea. Specifically Green Jasmine Pearl.