In this chapter, I invite you to consider a simple yet meaningful gesture—inviting your best friend for a beverage. It could be tea, coffee, a glass of wine—whatever you both enjoy. The key is to set an intention and schedule it in advance, ensuring you are mindful and fully present. No TV. No phones. No distractions. Just you and your friend.
Picture a quiet afternoon where the focus is on connection. The conversation moves beyond small talk into genuine listening and heartfelt sharing. Such moments can deepen bonds and become rituals we truly cherish.
When I prepare for my tea with Maggie, I begin with a Japanese tea ceremony to make our matcha. Using a bamboo whisk, I move slowly back and forth until the tea becomes frothy. As I do this, the earthy aroma fills the air and the deep green color catches my eye. Instantly, I am transported to a calm and joyful state, fully present in the moment. I find satisfaction in the simple act of making tea. I know that the intention and care I put into it will carry into the next moments. This is the flow state—where joy naturally unfolds.
My friend Maggie and I have been sharing virtual tea for years because we live in different provinces. We catch up on her children, her work, and her parents. Both Maggie and I love tea. Matcha is our favorite. Its rich, smooth flavor seems to make our conversations feel even more special.
It’s in these moments. Whether in person or across the miles, we remember the joy of simply being here for one another. That is the true essence of connection.
From the Shores of the Ottawa River 
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