The Qubit Bot team hosted an in-person outreach event, bringing together robotics and cultural exchange. The event took place at the serene Fo Guang Shan Xiang Yun Temple in Austin. The special guests? A group of students from Fo Guang University (佛光大學), a Buddhist college in Taiwan, who were visiting the U.S. to explore Buddhist temples and share their culture.
The Qubit Bot parents, team members, and the Taiwanese students gathered at the temple to participate in a traditional Taiwanese tea ceremony. The event was not just a cultural immersion but also an opportunity to create a meaningful bond through shared experiences.
The Ceremony Unfolds
The ceremony began with the Taiwanese students expertly preparing the tea. They carefully brewed the tea leaves and poured the amber-colored liquid into smaller pitchers. As they did so, other students placed teacups with Mandarin-inscribed saucers in front of each participant. The meticulous process of tea preparation was a beautiful sight, highlighting the students' dedication to their tradition. Once the tea had steeped, the students moved gracefully around the room, filling each teacup with care.
A Lesson in Tea Appreciation
With every cup filled, one of the Taiwanese teachers guided us through the proper way to enjoy the tea. This involved a series of steps:
Examining the Tea's Color
We were encouraged to observe and describe the tea's hue.
Appreciating the Aroma
Next, we took in the tea's fragrance, savoring its delicate scent.
Proper Hand Placement
We were taught the correct way to hold the cup, ensuring we honored the tradition.
Mindful Drinking
Finally, we drank the tea in three sips, fully experiencing its flavor.
After this initial ceremonial drinking, our cups were refilled, and this time we were free to enjoy the tea more casually. Small cookies were also served, with the students explaining that tea should not be drunk on an empty stomach.
Cultural Exchange and Shared Interests
As we sipped our tea and enjoyed the cookies, conversations flowed. We discussed a variety of topics with the Taiwanese students, ranging from robotics and artificial intelligence to Buddhism and university life. We shared our experiences with the FIRST and FTC competitions, explained how our team operates, and even offered to help them start their own robotics team. In return, the students provided insights into their college life, showcased a promotional video about their school, and performed a beautiful song illustrating Buddhist principles.
A Memorable Farewell
To conclude our enriching experience, we all posed for a group picture, holding our hands in the shape of a lotus flower, symbolizing enlightenment and purity in Buddhism. The Taiwanese students gifted us mementos to commemorate our meeting, leaving us with a sense of gratitude and a deeper understanding of their culture.
Reflections on the Experience
Participating in the traditional tea ceremony and engaging with the Taiwanese students was an enlightening experience for the Qubit Bot team. We gained valuable insights into a different culture and had the opportunity to share our passion for robotics. The exchange of ideas and the bonds formed during this event highlighted the importance of such outreach activities in fostering global understanding and collaboration.
The event at Fo Guang Shan Xiang Yun Temple was not just about robotics or tea; it was about building bridges across cultures and creating lasting memories. We are thankful for the opportunity and look forward to more such enriching experiences in the future.
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