Thankful for My Teakettle

“But in a great house
there are not only vessels of gold and of silver,
but also of wood and of earth;
and some to honour, and some to dishonour.”
II Timothy 2:20

Aren’t teakettles such cute, happy utensils? I mean, they whistle while they work after all. (Smile!) There is something so soothing about a teakettle whistling to you from the heart of the kitchen to the room you are waiting or working in. I guess that’s why I’m so thankful for my simple, silver-toned teapot and the blessings that pour warmly from its spout. It’s comforting to me. It makes my house feel like a home, provides liquid refreshment, and nurtures hospitality.

I learned an interesting tidbit I don’t think I ever considered before. A “teakettle” is used to boil water. A “teapot” is used to pour the boiling water into to brew the tea and serve it. My current teakettle didn’t cost much, but has more than covered its expense by being one of the most beneficial, faithful, and practical kitchen tools we use.

When I hear my teakettle’s steaming voice, I dutifully hurry to its beckoning call. It daily rises faithfully to the occasion, as it simmers slowly and steadily to a boil. Every time it offers me piping hot liquid solace for a cup of spicy, Chia tea, a bowl of oatmeal or grits, or a pitcher of sweet green tea. Yummy!

Sometimes, I get inpatient waiting for the water to boil, but my teakettle makes me wait. It just can’t be hurried up. Stopping the process early gives me lukewarm water, which is terrible for brewing tea. If I let it boil long past the sound of the whistle, the water will be too hot or boil away and ruin the pot. (Okay. Don’t ask me how I know that. I may have done that once or twice but I’m sure there was a good reason!)

I have fond memories of growing up hearing the whistle of my Mom’s teakettle. I took it for granted until I moved away and realized I missed it. I was gifted my first kettle for my wedding. It gave me such a sense of home and was something my Mom and I shared long-distance. She was an avid coffee drinker but also liked a cup of hot tea, which is how I learned to like tea. I never learned to like coffee, in any form, but tea still tickles my fancy.

Teakettles are more than useful utensils. They provide a sort of home ambiance that fosters slowing down, sitting still, soaking in the moments and socializing. Many a book has been devoured with a cup of hot tea in my family.

As I considered the gratitude I have for this water boiling device, I realized that I actually have a greater sentimental attachment to it than just the appreciation I have for this tool I use to fulfill kitchen duties. My silver teakettle does four things I love and enjoy. I appreciate how it simply blesses me by:

• Whistling tunes of comfort
• Warming my home and heart
• Working to fill cups and needs
• Willingly helping with hospitality

I’m going to try to give my teakettle more of the honour its due, by thanking God for it and appreciating its whistle more often. In fact, I think I’ll go spend some tea-time with it right now…

Bring It Home

Do you have a favorite teapot and a favorite tea? (I’m partial to Chia.)

Praying for you as we grow together,

Smiles, BRC