The ancient tea master, Rikyu once said “Do
things ahead of time”. This is one of
the seven essentials of The Way of Tea, which I introduced on the previous entry.
If there is a party, what time would you like
to get there? Would you be there earlier
than it starts, just on time, or after it started? I guess that this custom may vary in different
countries. In Japan, people get together
on time or slightly earlier than it starts. Maybe because, it is often said that it is
better to do things 5 minutes ahead. I
assume that this kind of practice is somehow related with Rikyu’s “Do things
ahead of time”.
What is the essential idea behind “Do things
ahead of time” in tea serving? I have
almost the same understanding as common opinions. Leeway of time will make a leeway on your
mind. A relaxed mind allows you to treat
your guests with composure. Eventually,
it helps for serving good tea.
My interpretation of Rikyu’s “Do things ahead
of time” is that
leeway on your mind is important.
leeway on your mind is important.
As I was writing this entry, I remembered my
own experience when I was a student. One
day, on my way home, I saw a familiar businessman parking his car on a street
one block away from my house. I asked my
mother what he was doing there. She said
that he was probably waiting to adjust the time for our appointment. Before this incident, I thought that being
early is always good but I realized afterwards that it may not be appreciated
at times. The host may not be ready at
the time and you might make him/her rush.
I was impressed with how professional the businessman was. Not only because of the time consideration,
but also because he waited at a place not visible from our house. This behavior comes from the spirit of
thinking of others. If you
have the chance to visit your friend in Japan, try to be just on time or slightly
earlier than the appointment.
This interpretation may vary in the future
as I experience and understand The Way of Tea more.
Related entries
Posts
In France, you come a bit later at a house party.
ReplyDeleteAs not much are on time, it is better coming slightly later not to bother the host in his preparation
Hi, Florian-san, It is interesting to know customs of other country. It makes sense to show up a bit late not to bother the host in his preparation. I’ll do it if I have a chance to join a party in France!
DeleteIn France, you come a bit later at a house party.
ReplyDeleteAs not much are on time, it is better coming slightly later not to bother the host in his preparation