Laughter in the Tea Room: A Sweet Mishap
A funny incident happened during the workshop. Everyone burst out laughing.
I was explaining to the family members why the tea ceremony became popular among samurai warriors in the 13th century. Suddenly, I saw something red and round, about the size of a marble, rolling across the tatami mats. It was a Japanese confectionery that had fallen out of a little girl’s hand. I couldn’t help but interrupt my talk and laugh out loud. Everyone else laughed too. The little girl blushed and smiled shyly. This cute incident helped to relax the atmosphere in the tea room.
The Robert family lives in San Francisco, USA. They took advantage of their children’s spring break to visit Japan. Robert had lived in Yokkaichi as an engineer for 4 years 30 years ago, and he is fluent in Japanese. He just turned 50 the day before the workshop. When I asked him how he felt about turning 50, he said, “It’s sad!”
The gentle gaze he gives his wife and children, and his demeanor full of contentment, are proof that he is deeply loved by his wife and children.
Their mother was born in Sri Lanka and has also been to Japan for work. She is very intelligent and has built a good relationship with her children. Naoko and I were very happy when she said, “Please come and visit our home in San Francisco.”
The three siblings, two boys and a girl, were very friendly and polite. Every time I handed them a bowl or plate, they would smile, bow slightly, and say “arigato” in Japanese in a small voice. I felt a sense of connection with them, and I was filled with joy inside.
