People tell me that I have a talent for Chado. But nobody is born being good at tea. When people are good at something, we assume that they must have a talent for it. This is not necessarily the case. We love to attribute success to talent. When we look at successful or professional athletes, …
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As we approach the solstice it seems like I am running downhill as things accelerate. Holiday plans, travel plans, baking, cooking, wrapping gifts, decorating; it all seems to go faster with less time every year as I get older.
This year I am certainly getting the feeling of growing older and approaching the time …
Permanent link to this article: https://issoantea.com/running-down-to-the-end-of-the-year/
I have recently begun okeiko again with Bonnie Mitchell-sensei via Zoom. I am so grateful for the time and energy that she invests in every lesson. It has been more than 18 years since I attended weekly okeiko. After so many years on the teaching side, being a student again is humbling. Yet every …
Permanent link to this article: https://issoantea.com/between-lessons/
The dictionary defines the long haul as a prolonged and difficult effort or task. It also brings to mind carrying something for a long distance or time.
I am great at starting things: projects, cleaning, research, study. When I started my Chado studies, I was hungry for lessons. I wanted to know everything. I …
Permanent link to this article: https://issoantea.com/for-the-long-haul/
As the world begins to open up again after Covid, activities that we used to enjoy can be intimidating to start again. As I contemplate starting tea lessons in person again, I am thinking how can I ease the way for students who may be hesitant to come to class. I will do my best …
Permanent link to this article: https://issoantea.com/starting-again/
