Thanks for this good reminder. We're mostly used to be conditioned to think through the lens of utility, success, making achievements visible. Do share more on the Wei-Jin era on how Ch'an came about with the fusion of Taoism and Buddhism.
Your post today makes me think of tea -- Tea can have its purpose (quenching thirst or accumulation of highly priced tea cakes), but for some it's really not about the taste. We can learn to keep our quick judgments aside while keeping an open mind.
For sure! The Wei-Jin era fascinates me. It'll be an interesting mini-project to add.
Everyone comes to tea with a different quest, purpose, or perspective. For me, drinking tea used to be primarily focused on practicality when I was young, like drinking with the seniors in the family or making tea for guests. But now, it's more about appreciating it alone or with friends (social function).
Great! And also time for me to re-read some of your older posts before you add new ones. Your tea journey is similar to mine. Growing up, tea was for families and host-guest rituals at temples, weddings, funerals, and also after heavy meals. Now, I am trying to blend the spiritual inward, mostly enjoying tea by myself, for families and friends, or for learning purpose. One day, I will host a proper 茶会.
We value what we can measure, and most value what we can measure easiest. What a shame! 🙏
Love the sharp insight!!
Thanks for this good reminder. We're mostly used to be conditioned to think through the lens of utility, success, making achievements visible. Do share more on the Wei-Jin era on how Ch'an came about with the fusion of Taoism and Buddhism.
Your post today makes me think of tea -- Tea can have its purpose (quenching thirst or accumulation of highly priced tea cakes), but for some it's really not about the taste. We can learn to keep our quick judgments aside while keeping an open mind.
For sure! The Wei-Jin era fascinates me. It'll be an interesting mini-project to add.
Everyone comes to tea with a different quest, purpose, or perspective. For me, drinking tea used to be primarily focused on practicality when I was young, like drinking with the seniors in the family or making tea for guests. But now, it's more about appreciating it alone or with friends (social function).
Great! And also time for me to re-read some of your older posts before you add new ones. Your tea journey is similar to mine. Growing up, tea was for families and host-guest rituals at temples, weddings, funerals, and also after heavy meals. Now, I am trying to blend the spiritual inward, mostly enjoying tea by myself, for families and friends, or for learning purpose. One day, I will host a proper 茶会.
Ah, a 茶会 will be wonderful!! :)
There are some revisions and organizing work I need to do for the previous posts. I'll keep you posted!