In the practice of mindfulness, even something as simple as drinking a cup of tea can be an opportunity to explore the concept of emptiness. Imagine holding a cup of tea. At first glance, you might see the cup as a solid, permanent object with a clear form and identity. However, if you were to look closely at the cup, you would realize that it is not a static, permanent object. The cup is constantly changing and is dependent on various conditions for its existence. For example, the cup is dependent on the clay, glass, or metal from which it is made, as well as on the hands that made it and transported it to your location. The cup also has a function or purpose — to hold tea — which means it is dependent on tea for fulfilling that purpose.

If you were to break down the cup into its individual components, you would find that there is no inherent self-nature or essence to the cup. It is simply a collection of parts that are dependent on various conditions for their existence. The same can be said for the tea that you pour into the cup. It is dependent on various conditions for its existence, such as water, leaves, sunlight, and nutrients from the soil.

By recognizing the interconnectedness and impermanence of all things, including a simple cup of tea, we can deepen our understanding of emptiness. We begin to see that fixed ideas and identities are illusory, and that everything is in a state of constant flux and transformation. This recognition can lead to a greater sense of freedom, ease, and joy in our lives. By mindfully drinking a cup of tea, we can cultivate this awareness and bring it into our daily lives.