These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

Chai Tea

Sweet gift of tea at end of day
to sip away the moments.
Nothing to do, nor aught to say,
but joy for all proponents.

The steeping time's a culinary art
for less is more, you know it,
but if too long to finish from start,
quite strong 'twill be, I trow it.

Yet, strong tea with a crisp or two
will mellow out the lading
of sharpest spice, that when cup's through,
I'll seek a new one waiting.

I often get the strength quite right,
but this one now is biting.
To sip it through with all my might
for me the cheese is fighting.

Some Rooibos as a gentle gift
will fill emotions brimming
as flavors of this herbal lift
to take this tired heart swimming.

by Jay O’Toole
on August 27th, 2025