Thursday, November 19, 2009
TWO CUPS
Although the barbarians are at the gates,
And you, you are a thousand miles away,
There are always two cups on my table.
- Chinese poem, Tang Dynasty
When I first read this poem printed, as it was, on the front of a menu at a tea shop, tears burned my eyes. To me, it evoked love and friendship across the distance of time and space, speaking of a connection that transcends all physical barriers. No matter that the barbarians in the Tang dynasty were actual invaders, the truth is we all have barbarians of one kind or another —illness, debt, loss—crowding at our gates. Sometimes fear itself is as bad as any legion.
Friends and companions help ease our fears, smooth the paths ahead, and keep the invaders at bay. Sometimes when distance separates us, we hold our cups full either in waiting or in memory of all that we hold good and true.
Here's to friends both near and far. Your cup is waiting…
Posted by Jane on
11/19 at 03:13 PM
Beautiful words, Jane. Thank you for reminding me of the importance of friendship.
By Rosemary Schalek on 2009 11 19
What a beautiful poem....and a wonderful post! So pleased to discover your blog.
By Helen on 2009 11 20
Jane, yes I agree about the two cups..that is truly a European tradition, especially with it filled with delightful teas and scones to slather with cream and strawberry jam.. After living inEurope for a number of years, it is a habit for me when friends drop by..so have a cup of tea for me.. Happy knitting Pat ;-)
By Pat Dixon on 2009 11 21
I, too, was deeply moved by this poem. There are so many dear ones who are either on the other side, or just far away. I miss them all. There is always a cup of tea on my table for them...including you, dear Jane.
By Jennifer Kuhlmorgen-Hille on 2009 11 21
what lovely words thank you
By beanz on 2009 12 01
Thank you for this. Just what I needed to hear right now. I just found your page and I am very excited to see your work! It is much like what I imagine in my mind's eye but did not know how to make come real. Here's to the beginning of what I hope will be a long association!
By Susan Eiseman Levitin on 2009 11 19