I have a favorite tea mug. I like the feel, the heft, and the specific taste it delivers.

The glazing in some mugs cracks and leaks an earthy taste. In contrast, others maintain their internal glazing and let the tea flavor stand alone. It is not my favorite mug to look at, but I still like it.

In our kitchen cupboard, we have about a dozen mugs on one half-shelf. Four match, eight have various logos.

My husband has many favorite beer glasses, but I don’t always appreciate the difference between them. Yes, I have learned the difference between a pilsner pint, a Kolsch stange, a lager stein, and a stout snifter, but I’m not too concerned about the glass pairing as long as the beer is good and the glass is clean.

As a homebrewer, my husband can count me among his biggest fans and worst students. In contrast to the mugs, we have two full cupboards dedicated to glassware, including anywhere from four to eight of each style of various designs. (Apparently, we must be prepared in case Oktoberfest breaks out.)

So, here we are. I with my choice teacup, and he with his bevy of glassware, living under one roof. Still, we manage to move forward together.  

It’s funny how we can be so particular in opposite areas, especially ones that in the end do not change the trajectory of our lives. It is comforting to say that we come together on the important issues and enjoy the discussion of silly things for which there is no prize, nor agreement required.

Let the little things slide. Enjoy the differences. Save your energy for the big stuff. Pour yourself a mug of tea or a pint of beer and relax.

Cheers,

Mary