During this time of gratitude, I wanted to reflect on what I am thankful for.
T = tea benefits. Tea can be a healthful drink. Green tea does have antioxidants. Caffeine in tea does act as a central nervous system stimulant. Those two benefits alone keep me steeping tea pretty much everyday. However, it is also the intangible benefits of tea that I am thankful for. The comforting feel of a warm cup of tea in my hands. The aroma of tea that can transport me to a specific happy memory. The joy I receive in preparing a cup of tea for a loved one or a friend.
H = helping hands and health. I am most appreciative for my health and my loved ones health. I am grateful for all the help I have received this year in my own life and in the lives of my elder parents. The journey of caregiving can be a long and lonely road but I have been reminded this year of all the many people who have helped me, who have walked alongside me, and lifted me up when even a cup of tea wouldn’t revive me.
A = animals. My life has been blessed and enriched by the assortment of animals that have taken shelter under my roof through the years. From guinea pigs, to rabbits, a snapping turtle I rescued, to even the classroom newly hatched chick that needed veterinary care; my house has been a busy animal sanctuary. My dogs have the biggest place in my heart outside of all the animals that have come across my path. Even Louis Charles, when he is naughty, is still “mama’s baby boy dog.”
N = niceness. There have been numerous times this past year that people have done an unwarranted nice turn for me. People holding doors open as I push a loved one in a wheelchair through the entryway. Strangers helping a loved one navigate a steep curb safely. Shoppers who have volunteered to reach an object on a top shelf for me so that I didn't have to climb the shelving. I am thankful for them, their act of niceness and I pass it forward to others who may need a nice turn of events in their life.
K = kindred spirits. You just know when you click with someone. When words don’t even need to be said, yet both of you are thinking the same thing.
F = family and friends. Where would I be without my family? Where would I be without my girlfriends? I am blessed daily by my family and my friends. The laughs, the help, the hugs, the sailing memories, and the love have truly enriched my life.
U= understanding. So many people have shown me understanding regarding my caregiving position. Caregiving is a new role that I find myself in and one that I don’t fully understand myself. They have helped me understand my role and what I can do to further assist my loved one.
L = lovers of tea. That is you, precious reader! For without you, I would not have the joy of writing about tea and tea related subjects. Thank you for encouraging my creativity, and stretching my knowledge. I am very thankful for you.
What is it that fills you with gratitude and thanksgiving?
Thankfully yours,
Leslie
About The Author
Leslie Sundberg is a World Tea Academy Certified Tea Specialist, a World Tea Academy Apprentice Tea Sommelier, a Specialty Tea Institute Level IV trained Tea Specialist, and a Tea and Business Etiquette Specialist. On any given day, Leslie can be found teaching, speaking or sharing in the joys of a cup of tea. No matter what Leslie is doing or where she is, one thing remains constant: 4:00 in the afternoon is tea time!