The Teabag
Your T.E.A Bag
The last time you consumed tea, did you think about the actual teabag? How did the teabag come about, and why? I went to do some digging, and here is what I found out. The exact origins of the teabag are unknown. However, Thomas Sullivan is credited with creating the closest resemblance to the teabag we know today. He constructed the teabag out of gauze. According to legend, Sullivan decided to use gauze for convenience and easy cleanup. Even modern technological brewing systems can't compete with the good old teabag. The key to Sullivan's invention was the ability of the gauze to retain the delicate tea elements but not contaminate the tea drinker's mouth with tea particles.
There's a reflection in that process. What type of material are you using to disburse your talents, skills, and gifts in your work environment? The authentic version of you should be enough in all environments. The teabag does not detract from the quality of the tea. You're essentially watering down your true quality when you fake who you are. The consumer (your employer and followers) might enjoy the content, but you're left feeling unfulfilled. As the teabag, you served your purpose but is that good enough? A quality teabag allows just the right amount of the good stuff to filter out. Despite how hot the water gets or how long the teabag is left to steep, the contents remain contained. Think of your mindset as your teabag. Think critically about how much of your gift you should share with others. We should avoid allowing others to rip our teabags and expose the contents that can tarnish their experience and ours. Sure, we're all tempted to show up and show out, but why? Content exposure is often the symptom of something deeper that is worth exploring. The next time you are about to act out of character, or someone gets under your skin, stop and examine the quality of your teabag. It's not damaged beyond repair, it's not cheap, and YOU control what comes out. Disburse your contents on your terms and allow yourself room for growth. Until next time...sip away!
