The overarching cultural concept behind a Japanese tea ceremony is ichi-go ichi-e, which, roughly translated, means “one time, one place.” This phrase serves to remind its participants to cherish the gathering, for the meeting may not have the chance to be repeated. Even if the attendees met again, the dynamics would shift, and thus, the experience would never be the same. In this way, each meeting is unique and to be treasured. It’s important to note that a tea ceremony was designed to make this concept possible by asking its participants—samurai and wealthy noblemen, as well as farmers and everyday people—to come together as equals. In the tea house, no one outranks another, and everyone has something to contribute. To enter the tea house, one must leave one’s non-essentials (the samurai’s sword and helmet, for example) outside and then pass through an intentionally low opening, bowing as one does so. This physical act of leaving behind extraneous possessions and lowering your head is another reminder to be present. In our increasingly divisive and chaotic world, perhaps it’s time for all of us to embrace the ichi-go ichi-e mindset. #leadership #trust #listening #present …see more