M: Mr. Bill,  before drinking, we must respect the bowl.

O'R: What?

M: The tea is hot, so don't drink it right away.  Instead, raise the bowl with two hands and address it.

O'R: Does the bowl understand English? Should I say, 'Good afternoon, bowl?'

M:  You don't have to talk.  Just try to achieve harmony with both the bowl and the tea.  Then you drink it.

O'R:  What if the bowl doesn't like me? That wouldn't be unusual. 

M: (Realizing it was a mistake to allow me into the country) Yes.  That could be a problem.  Harmony does not seem to be your strong point.

O'R:  You're telling me!

In the end, I did respect the bowl; at least, it appeared that way.  The tea was a little bitter.

Having a great time in the Land of the Rising Sun. Hope the Memorial Day Weekend is harmonic for you