Tea Ceremony

On October 10, there was a wonderful tea ceremony at Matsue Castle. One of the things I like about this old castle town is that the people never seem to lose their connection with the ancient culture of Japan.

Tea is very important to this area of Japan, and Matsue has a great history related to tea. Fumai Matsudaira was one of the key figures in making the tea ceremony a part of the life here. He was the seventh lord of Matsue Castle and is probably better known today than when he was alive.

My wife and I went to the Castle park and drank tea with many of our friends. The important part of the tea ceremony for me was to meet my friends and enjoy a period of peace and relaxation with them.

In the United States there is no custom even slightly similar to the Japanese tea ceremony. Therefore it is a little hard for Americans to understand "The Way of Tea" when they come to Japan. Many Japanese make a study of this ancient social art form. My wife is learning the tea ceremony, as are many of my friends, both male and female. It is almost a necessity for a prospective bride to learn it.

At Matsue Castle, we had tea in the Mushanokoji Senke tradition. My male friends are learning this "way." I thought it was really well done for its international significance. Only the kettle for heating the water was made in Japan. All other utensils were made in other countries. I feel that the Japanese effort to use foreign artifacts in the tea ceremony will be valuable in spreading the "art of tea" around the world.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if everyone, everywhere, could spend a few peaceful minutes a day in sincere and honest, heart-to-heart conversation, or even silent communion, with others? It would improve the character of those who would take the time to enjoy the peaceful feeling that is a part of this ancient ritual.

Let's all try to increase our appreciation of this wonderful social art, and enjoy the few minutes of rest and tranquility each day that it can help us experience.



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