This cup, shining in the morning light, is my way of wishing everyone a Happy New Year – a peaceful year in a troubled world. We all have different tastes; I wouldn’t have chosen this cup for myself. I thought it looked it a bit pretentious on its silver tray, sitting on a starched napkin. It’s not my usual taste. Then I put the tray on the bed, and the cup looked elegant and charming in the early morning sun. This was in Tbilisi, in a former printing house converted into a hotel. Each to their own cup, each to their own tea. Let’s hope there is always room for difference, for listening to others. Let’s hope we are driven more by the desire to understand than to judge. By the desire for peace. Tea connects us; tea calms us. Happy New Year 2025!