It was a Tuesday, eight hours before I would have to submit an essay for one of my university courses that would account for 60% of my final grade. It wasn’t that I had waited until the last minute to start and was somewhat of a delinquent or the epitome of what lousy time management is.
Life had gotten the better of me. I had other things that required my attention and was overwhelmed—two nights without sleep and on the brink of defeat. While trying to piece together mind mapping research and formatting structure to textual proof, morning met me. I hadn’t eaten or drank anything because I was too laser-focused on just finishing. Not just to be done with but to submit a quality paper worthy of an excellent grade.
My father witnessed how diligent I was working and said, "You need fuel tuh run, take ah break, and have ah cup of tea.” I insisted, no, I’m fine, really. However, the universe emphasized that it had other unfortunate plans for me; electricity had gone the moment I was about to submit, with four hours to spare. Ahhh! I could scream; I felt like throwing something, but instead, tears welled in my eyes. I prayed for a miracle to happen, that power would miraculously return instantly.
My father mockingly laughed, “You shoulda just had de tea when I asked.” I walked away, tried calming down, and reminded myself that things would work out. I made a cup of tea, and the electricity returned within the first five sips. Finally, I was ecstatic to send in my assignment with an hour to spare. My father soon came, proudly resting his hands on my shoulder, and exclaimed, “Ahh, de power of tea!"
Cocoa Tea Shenanigans
If you’ve ever been invited to a West Indian home, there is a definite chance you will be asked, “How yuh take yuh tea/coffee?” Presumably, assuming that you must be an avid tea or coffee drinker. You see, tea is not just a drink but has become embedded into our nature as West Indians. So much so that we refer to any warm beverage as tea; even the milk babies drink is called tea. Our obsession with tea is admirable; my father is a testament to that. He believes nothing can’t be fixed without a cup of tea and that every pain and imaginable problem you face must have been gas-related, so have a cup of tea.
So, I am confident in saying that one thing we know everything about is tea. However, this wasn’t always the case. The Europeans first discovered tea in the 15th century, and due to its high cost, it was a luxury item consumed by only British nobility and at high society gatherings. As time progressed, with its increased affordability by the end of the 18th century, tea rapidly expanded to urban populations. It was then a part of the lives of every Caribbean person. The tea culture in the Caribbean has undoubtedly been shaped by the British influence, who introduced the tea-drinking habit to the region.
Even though they first stumbled upon it, we have perfected the wealth of tea. For generations, our grandmothers and great-grandmothers have been brewing tea potions from herbs, roots, and bushes native to our land as medicinal remedies. A cup of tea is appropriate for any situation, whether peppermint, ginger, or chamomile, but none quite like Caribbean Chocolate Tea (Cocoa Tea). A delicious, smooth blend of natural cacao brewed with cinnamon and nutmeg spices, bay leaves, and sweetened with a bit of condensed milk.
I've got cocoa tea on my brain.
Some of my fondest memories are centered around a warm, hearty cup of cocoa tea, which I have enjoyed since childhood. Although there are subtle variations to the recipe, it will always be a standout because every sip transports me to the family gatherings of old talking and stories that make you laugh till your belly hurts, breakfast with a tasty bake and saltfish buljol, or afternoons with my grandmother and the nostalgic, feel-good, cozy embrace you can always receive. I'm speaking of the feeling you feel only around Christmas time. You get all this from a cup of Cocoa tea and more.
The more part is its value, an expressive aroma for our emotions. We use it to express every possible feeling, from sympathy when we are sad and downtrodden to the welcome chant of hospitality when we visit someone's home. Tea spilled (spilling the tea) with a cup in hand adds a sweeter ring to “macoing de neighbor business” or "giving de rundown" of the office gossip.
After an argument, it is the olive branch of peace, an unspoken nod to squash all beef (animosities). It is an excuse to share great thoughts gathered with intellectual minds and a humble healer, a medicine that cures the body and calms the mind and soul.
To be a cup of cocoa tea is to be dependable, like a loyal friend who never leaves and is always there to weather all life circumstances with you.
Things that you can share and take away from a cup of Cocoa Tea.
1. It's a pick-me-up for those energy-draining, moody days.
2. Its indulgence of warmth can melt even the coldest hearts.
3. It diminishes mental chaos and rejuvenates peace.
4. Can inspire creative thinking.
5. Gives you the confidence to face daunting uncertainties.
6. The ability to unite individuals and create a sense of togetherness.
7. An excellent icebreaker to start great conversations.
8. It takes all the blame and silently speaks, “I’m sorry.”
9. A cure for any problem faced, whether physical, mental, or emotional.
10. It teaches us to slow down and appreciate the present.
Despite the prevalence of instant tea solutions like tea bags and quick-fix packets, the timeless allure of tea continues to spread its value one sip and flavor at a time.
My Quick-Fix Tea Stash
It is a ubiquitous beverage, gaining importance and popularity daily owing to its comfort and warmth. So, tell me, do you have a love for tea? What are your favorite types, and do you have cherished memories associated with them? What values can you add to sharing a cup of cocoa tea?
Always Remember,
Love Your Journey
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