I was invited to participate in the "Way of Tea: Embodied Learning and its Significance" program at Colgate University, a top 20 university in the United States located in the small town of Hamilton, New York. This two-week workshop was a follow-up to my 2018 visit, during which I conducted a tea demonstration and a one-day workshop. At that time, I lived in New Jersey and flew from Newark to Syracuse. The journey from Japan was long and arduous, involving flights from Tokyo Haneda to Chicago, a five-hour layover, and then onward to Syracuse. Dr. Hirata kindly drove me from Syracuse to Hamilton, and by the time I settled in, 25 hours had passed since I left home.
Japanese people often take their own culture for granted, but I am always deeply appreciative of the global interest in Japanese traditions. On the first day of the workshop, I observed students seriously engaging with various aspects of Japanese culture, such as calligraphy and painting, and learning Japanese reading and writing. Their dedication impressed me greatly.
The tea ceremony is not merely about making tea; it is a heart-to-heart communication between host and guests. The students made me feel welcomed and accepted by celebrating my birthday and showing exceptional hospitality. This experience reaffirmed that tea is a powerful tool to deepen relationships. I was energized and inspired by the Colgate community.
Since my first visit in 2018, I have gained more experience and knowledge in the Japanese tea ceremony. For my second visit, I gave my all, hoping to impart meaningful lessons and inspiration to the participants. The hospitality I experienced at Colgate University taught me a great deal, and I am profoundly grateful for Dr. Hirata’s efforts in organizing this program and inviting me.
I am truly thankful for this wonderful opportunity.
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