This article appeared on Facebook and led me down a path of reminiscences. First, the tea story.
“In Ireland, you go to someone's house, and she asks you if you want a cup of tea. You say no, thank you, you're really just fine. She asks if you're sure. You say of course you're sure, really, you don't need a thing. Except they pronounce it ting. You don't need a ting.
Well, she says then, I was going to get myself some anyway, so it would be no trouble. Ah, you say, well, if you were going to get yourself some, I wouldn't mind a spot of tea, at that, so long as it's no trouble and I can give you a hand in the kitchen.
Then you go through the whole thing all over again until you both end up in the kitchen drinking tea and chatting.
In America, someone asks you if you want a cup of tea, you say no, and then you don't get any damned tea.
I liked the Irish way better.”
― C.E. Murphy, Urban Shaman
If I recall correctly, while we were up in Northern Mongolia, at Khuvsgul Lake, I believe that you made contact with a family out in the wilderness on a day trip with our guide. Perhaps you shared a cup of tea with them and became connected on Facebook as you visited with the family. Then the book, Three Cups of Tea is another tea bell ringer. Smiles .. Cap and Patti
ReplyDeleteIndeed I had salted tea with yak milk in the nomad's ger (yurt). One of the highlights of my life. They asked that I take photos of their horses. I did but cannot figure out how to get the pix to them if I print them.
DeleteNo Facebook for them. Far too technologically advanced for their simple lifestyle. They did have a small solar panel which supplied them with a small electric light bulb and a tiny TV. No computer, etc.
DeleteFor some reason, we thought you were in contact with them via Facebook. Our reality is not reality. As we are positive you know, it would be impossible, absolutely, positively, impossible, to get photos to them. We sure remember the day you went out there and met them. Special. Very VERY special. Cap and Patti
DeleteI have thought of many ways but haven't acted on them, such as mailing khuvgahl post office with photos of the men on the envelope, sending the photos to the missionaries who were rebuilding that vacant building into a rehab center, etc. Many your friends in Ulanbattar would have an idea.
DeleteThe Irish way is definitely better!
ReplyDelete