Lu Xun once said, 'Having good tea to drink and knowing how to enjoy it is a kind of "simple happiness."' This statement evokes a sense of humility, as such a refined state of tea appreciation seems unattainable for most in modern society. People enjoy tea, but often in a casual manner. Some online discussions categorize tea drinking into eighteen levels of mastery, from non-drinkers to enthusiasts and even those who abstain. However, the essence of tea drinking is simple and can be distilled into three stages.

Quenching thirst

Tea is often consumed as a beverage. Many households brew a pot of tea and leave it to cool. Children might gulp it down after school without a second thought, purely to quench their thirst, oblivious to its flavor.

Savoring flavor

Appreciating the nuances of tea comes later. The myriad aromas, tastes, and sweetness can captivate someone, making them crave a particular flavor. They might save a special batch for cherished moments with friends.

Cultivating joy

The tea need not be the finest, as long as it is good. A serene mood, accompanied by music, incense, and a beloved teapot, creates a moment of bliss that rivals any heavenly pleasure.

Understanding tea is not essential. As the tea master Sen no Rikyū said, 'The essence of the tea ceremony is merely boiling water and making tea.' The type of tea matters less than finding one that suits you. Tea drinking is about 'stealing leisure in a busy life and finding joy in hardship.' Every tea lover harbors a serene haven in their heart, where flowers bloom and melodies linger. Awakening to this tranquility daily, free from worldly concerns, is the true art of tea.