Two Cups of Tea at Hope’s Café
My quilter/blogger/good-all-around person and friend Mary, has been writing recently of quilt shows she has attended. (zippyquilts.blog) She mentioned one which was labeled as made by “a recognized quilter who ate mischief for breakfast.” What a delightful description. I think I shall aspire to “eating mischief for breakfast!”
Pondering why this might be so intriguing, I consider that such an attitude frames the day. The phrase suggests an openness to the day, a desire to remain playful, to engage others with affectionate teasing. Of course, this requires moderation and good judgement. I have a grandson who appears to “eat mischief” for breakfast, lunch and dinner, including snacks and dessert. He is only seven so there is hope that he matures in time to learn to be more reasoned in his approach.
The word can also refer to much more serious behavior. It can mean intentional damage with malicious intent or to a troublemaker who causes discord among others. One of the reasons I was drawn to the phrase “eating mischief for breakfast” was its offer of another means to seek some measure of lightheartedness amidst so much that threatens to weigh me down. But clearly this latter meaning applies as well and we have the evidence all around us. I read the phrase today “a culture that has decided truth is optional and cruelty is currency…” and “a culture that is addicted to outrage.” (Michael Jochum in “The Permission to Be Obnoxious.”) The consequences we are seeing everyday as a result of these developments is unconscionable.
I began this blog with the intention of “encouraging people on life’s journey,” promoting maintaining a sense of gratitude and balance in our lives. So I recognize both sides of “mischief.” There is much damage being wrought now. Yet there is still good in the world and kind, loving people who seek the common good. We can enjoy the small pleasures of life and practice gratitude for the gift of each day we are granted. We can even from time to time “eat mischief for breakfast.”
The invitation is open to share two cups of tea anytime at Hope’s Café or anywhere you share companionship and conversation.
May we bearers of hope, the “wait staff” at Hope’s Café, for each other and all those we encounter. Shalom, Kate
Hope's Cafe 