The Ritual

It is a sacred ritual, known only to the few others who have the Knowledge and the courage. That little container in the cupboard is to be treated with great care.

The maker reaches for the container of cocoa, and then the jar of honey, holding them reverently as the world collapses down to this fixed little sequence of events, before placing them on the counter. Then, methodically, a teaspoon, handpicked measuring jug and microwaveable mug join the two ingredients. Suddenly, with a crescendo of light, the bottle of milk!

Some moments pass as the majesty of the occasion grows, and then the mug is filled with milk. The milk is transferred messily to the jug. Spillage is mopped up. A little milk is poured back in the mug, and the jug goes in the grand heating device. Oh, the joys of the microwave, making hot milky drinks easier for many decades now! High power for two and a bit minutes. While the microwave plate rotates, the maker of the cocoa takes the Teaspoon of Fate and places some cocoa in the mug of remaining milk. Then some honey. The two are mixed, and with zealous lack of restraint, the maker of the cocoa guzzles some of the sweet paste while waiting for the microwave to finish! The honey stuck to the spoon has to be removed, after all. It's only decent.

Finally, the dreaded moment arrives, and the 'ping' is heard. No more eating the cocoa paste, the closest thing to chocolate available for someone sworn off sugar. Hot milk drowns out the contents of the mug, and the cocoa mixed, before being drunk in a few sips. The ritual is near completion, awaiting only the washing of the mug, spoon and jug.

It is over. The ritual completed. The cocoa drinker looks confused, suddenly feels a bit tired, and departs for places unknown. Until the next time.

O.