Tea Shop Handshake
The coffee shop outside our current residence in Morocco offers a wide variety of teas, an array that seems to cater to a diverse community of internationals in the city. I wanted *Moroccan* tea, but it wasn’t on the menu.
I engaged in some conversational gymnastics with the waiter … then there it was on the table: a small silver platter and tea service with AUTHENTIC Moroccan tea. (So good!)
S and I have been reflecting on AUTHENTICITY and SIMPLICITY during this recent of our trip. Our burglary resulted in an obvious simplifying of our material possessions. That experience in some ways has hatched pangs of homesickness, self doubt … and bigger, broader questions about our adventure.
How do we read our boys in light of our recent experiences? How do S and I read each other? Is fear, anxiety, sadness, and wondering a natural result of what happened, or a natural result from life on the road … or are these things bigger, broader?
We don’t know the answers. We’re still talking through the questions.
One question was texted to a friend recently, as part of a larger, looser conversation: Remind me why we came on this trip?
The (edited) reply was not large and loose:
You came on the this trip to give yourself wholly to your family without being divided by carpool and vestry meetings and piano and needy friends like me. You came on this trip so J could create and explore … You came on this trip so your children will know without a shadow of a doubt that the world does not begin and end in northern Virginia … You came to give them bigger hearts and a grand experience of the presence and power of God in the world. Making Himself known is HIS job, not yours. Your job is just to show up and open the door and you are doing that.
This may be the best thing you will ever do, but it won’t be that until its over.
The kids won’t remember how awful they were or how their parents took turns coming undone. They will remember the wonder of the fact that you did this and the memories will get sweeter with the telling of the stories. You did this for good reasons! You are not allowed to quit.
And right now circumstances have created an opportunity to live into the courage part of your lesson planning. … Praying for you and your men. Xoxox
That note, just a few hours old, has been wonderfully clarifying and has brought S and I real peace.
…
Back again in the coffee shop, Mariah Carey’s “Hero” is playing on the sound system. Yes, I could sing along … I’ve got great jazz hand choreography for this song… but it’s not exactly purely Moroccan musical fare.
Last night, I was here with two of our boys and introduced them to Moroccan tea. (One thumbs up, one thumbs down.) I explained to them how tea is such an important social transaction in this part of the world.
One boy responded: “tea is like a handshake.” Later, W said: “It’s the best tea I’ve ever had.”
Exactly.
That’s why we’re on this trip.
Ready to engage with bigger, broader. Bring on the questions.
What a smart kid! Tea is like a handshake or a hug or a kiss depending on who you are sharing it with. And please don’t quit. It is the trip of a lifetime for many of us. I love the line that the stories will get sweeter with time. That is the truth of family folklore. This trip will creat rich deserving tales to be told and written about. Thank goodness you all have taken notes along the way. There is a great book here too should you want to take the time. Love to all as the holidays are coming upon us. Where will you be?
For Christmas, we’re planning to be in Turkey. Glad to have this continued connection with the Wax family.
Morocco!! Now im jealous. You’re my dad idol, Wildman. – Paps.
Love it. Good friend, there. Praying for you all. the johnsons
I eagerly anticipate our posts, for both the update on your adventure and your thoughtful insights. But this morning I’m admiring the insightful words of your unnamed correspondent. Wise words, indeed. Not only will you not know the value of this year until it is over, you probably will never know its full impact on the 5 of you, individually and collectively. I also like the idea of just showing up. Isn’t that true for a large part of life?
How about an occasional guest column from your anonymous friend?!
Jim, we are enjoying hearing about your family’s adventures! The boys and I talk about you often. Please say hello to Suby and your boys! I can’t imagine how challenging this year has been, but what a treasure for you and your family. Wishing you all well! Your lax carpool buddies, Maria, Conor, and Colin.
Love the encouraging words of your wise friend. I was cheering her on as I read — such truth for you, S and the boys. I can’t help wondering how God will use this special time in your lives in the future lives of W, H & E. It will be a beautiful thing to watch unfold.
Loved reading this post!!! So appreciate your reflections, and really loved the encouragement from your unnamed friends. How wise!!! Thanks for allowing us the incredible glimpse into this amazing journey!! Big hugs from The Pinsons!
Your friend nailed it. The reason for your trip.