The first time I practiced tea ceremony I felt like such a moron!! My tea ceremony teacher, Tabusa-san, performed it once for me to watch and then asked me to try. Of course I couldn't remember all the precise movements so she tried coach me along with words. There seemed to be a lapse between the words she was saying, my brain, and the movements of my hands though. I tried to carry out the movements exactly as she instructed me, but I just couldn't get it right!
When my mom visited me we went to Tabusa-san's house so my mom could see and try Sado for herself. Watching her fumble around and struggle to carry out the movements, just as I had struggled so much my first time, was absolutely hysterical! Sado is a pretty somber affair, and hysterical laughter normally wouldn't be appropriate, but in the company of close friends and family I just couldn't contain myself. It was pretty awesome.
After a few months of practice I was ready for my first real tea ceremony. It was at an Ohanami party held by the Imabari (my town) International Association. Ohanami, or cherry blossom viewing parties, are a very big deal in Japan. Cherry blossoms are the essence of spring; and the blossoms' limited lifespan illustrates just how fleeting this life is. I wore a kimono for the event, which was exciting, but also a little uncomfortable. I felt a little awkward in it as my movements were slightly restricted. I was so nervous because I was still learning and I was still a little shaky on some parts. Not to mention that I would be performing in front of dozens of people! I got through it just fine though and it was a great experience. I think the Japanese people that attended the Ohanami were moved to see a foreigner like me trying hard to learn about their traditional culture.
Here are some photos from the event:
