I pondered for a long time without finding a suitable answer until one day, upon encountering a perspective on obesity, it suddenly dawned on me.
We often assume that obesity results from lifestyle habits, but in reality, it is determined by genes—genes that predispose individuals to favor lifestyles leading to weight gain.
Could it be, then, that a person's love for tea is also influenced by genetics? Perhaps those who adore tea inherently possess a 'tea-loving gene,' and when they encounter tea, they unconsciously develop a deep affection for it.
Tea has accompanied the Chinese people for over a thousand years. Across such an extensive period, it has inevitably exerted a subtle influence on the Chinese psyche. Through generations—one, two, three, or even dozens—could it not have quietly integrated into people's genes, forming a 'tea-loving gene'?
Due to certain historical reasons, traditional ways of life once drifted away from us. Later, as living standards improved, calls to revive traditions emerged, leading to a resurgence of 'traditional studies.' Gradually, a wealth of cultural practices re-entered our lives, embraced by many—among them, tea.
For a long time, tea played a marginal role in Chinese lives, but the fading of its form did not alter the genetic predisposition.
Although tea enthusiasts are growing in number, I do not see this as a fashion or a trend. Loving tea is, in fact, an alignment with an inner longing, a spiritual return to our roots.
When we have no opportunity to encounter tea, our tea-loving gene lies dormant. The day we meet tea, this gene awakens, releasing immense energy that draws us to it.
Our love for tea is a serendipitous reunion after a long separation. Thus, when we encounter tea, we do so with calm and joy.
This love for tea may not be new but a rediscovery of an old affection.
Why are more people drawn to tea? Why does this love, once kindled, become inseparable? Because every Chinese person carries a tea-loving gene.
Perhaps this gene does more than foster a love for tea—it may be a deeper force, inspiring us to seek spiritual beauty and live with passion.