Happy Father’s Day

How a cup of tea can warm the heart and soul…

I have a deep abiding love for tea that stems from my childhood.  I grew up in the 70’s, a time where people still took time for tea.  There were “tearooms” in every corner.  A small quaint convenience store in most neighbourhoods.  My childhood was abundant in the experience of different cultures and people of all walks of life.  I was a “shop” baby.  Unlike most children, there was no parent at home to take care of me, so had I to go to “work” with my dad.  He had a small business called Frisco Picture Frames in the hub of the Durban City centre.  I remember watching wide eyed as he interacted and spoke to customers, and more importantly always offered them a cup of tea.  Each time someone walked into the shop I eagerly looked forward to the stories that would unfold.  It was fascinating to me, to see what new “tea” would be served.

I remember my dad as a gentleman, always smartly dressed, pleasant in manner and so very patient with me.  He was kind and caring and people took a genuine liking to him.  I am so  grateful to have had the experience of being in the presence of someone who took the time to chat with me and treat me, even at a very young age, with such respect. I did not get to know him as an adult, as he passed a few months before my 11th birthday.  But in those formative years, his unconditional kindness and love made a huge impression on me.  Being a child, there is not much one can do to truly show your gratefulness to a parent.  Tea allowed me to do something for my dad, a little gesture that showed him my care for him.  My dad loved tea.  He drank his tea black with three teaspoons of sugar.  And he drank several cups a day!  On occasion, he would add a dollop of butter or a teaspoon of lemon.  We always took a tea break together.  I felt so grand and grownup when I was allowed to make the tea.  It was such a simple act of sharing sandwiches, sipping of tea and just chatting.  It lasted no longer than 20 minutes as he had to get back to his work, yet those moments I have treasured.  

So, on this father’s day, I salute all dad’s and father figures who offer their children the gift of their love.  Know that by just being present and engaging with your children, they are basking in the light of your love.   I now observe as my kids take turns to make tea for my husband and smile to myself, remembering my rich and blessed childhood.

Happy Father’s Day to all the wonderful dads that the world so needs.