A Cup of Real Life T-E-A Changed My Life
- Elizabeth Gagnon
- Mar 18
- 3 min read
Life has a beautiful way of weaving memories into our narratives, and for me, one of the most significant threads began when I was just four years old. It was a sunny afternoon when my beloved Oma handed me a small cup of tea, its warmth cradling my tiny hands. That simple act became the foundation of a lifelong journey, guiding me through the complexities of life with the wisdom she imparted: Reflect, Recharge, and Release.

Reflect: A Lesson in Stillness
From that tender age, I learned the importance of reflection. Every sip of tea was a gentle invitation to pause and consider what was happening around me. My Oma would often sit with me, encouraging me to think about my day, my feelings, and my dreams. She taught me that reflection was not just about looking back but also about understanding ourselves and our place in the world. This practice of reflection has become a cornerstone of my life, helping me navigate challenges and celebrate victories.
Recharge: Finding Renewal
As I grew older, I realized that life can be overwhelming, and we often forget to take time for ourselves. My Oma’s tea was more than just a drink; it was a ritual of recharging. When life felt heavy, I would find solace in a quiet moment with my cup, allowing its warmth to rejuvenate my spirit. I learned that recharging is essential—not just for our bodies but for our minds and souls. It’s in these moments that we can gather our strength to face whatever comes our way.
Release: Letting Go of the Unnecessary
Perhaps the most profound lesson from my childhood was the art of release. My Oma would say, “Sometimes, you must let go to make room for what truly matters.” With each cup of tea, I began to practice releasing my fears, doubts, and grudges. It was liberating to understand that holding onto negativity only weighed me down. Through storytelling and sharing my experiences, I discovered the beauty of letting go, allowing myself to be free and open to new possibilities.

The T-E-A Within Us All
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that we all have a T-E-A within us—past, present, and future. Each of us carries our unique stories, shaped by our experiences and the ways we serve ourselves and others at the tables of life. Our past informs our reflections, our present calls for recharging, and our future beckons us to release what no longer serves us. Embracing this T-E-A allows us to bring our authentic selves to the table, enriching our connections and experiences.
The Ripple Effect of T-E-A
I noticed a remarkable transformation as I integrated these three principles into my life. Reflecting on my experiences helped me cultivate deeper relationships, recharging my spirit brought forth creativity, and releasing what no longer served me opened up new paths. My stories began to resonate with others, inspiring them to embark on their journeys of reflection, recharging, and release.

Conclusion: The Power of a Cup of T-E-A
Looking back, that little cup of tea my Oma shared with me was more than a drink; it was a vessel of wisdom that has guided me through life’s ups and downs. My T-E-A philosophy—Reflect, Recharge, and Release—has become my guiding light, reminding me to pause, rejuvenate, and let go. So, the next time you find yourself with a cup of tea(yourself), remember the lessons it can impart. Embrace the opportunity to reflect, recharge your spirit, and release what no longer serves you. And as you do, recognize that you have your own T-E-A to share, shaping the lives of those around you. Who knows? That simple cup of real-life T-E-A might just change your life, just as it did mine.
Cheers to new beginnings and the stories that shape us!
Written By Miss Liz
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