Joanne Horst
The Women Sharing Hope’s Connected Hearts Prayer, Praise, and Play (PPP) Group recently embarked on a cultural adventure at the home of Yoshika Hopfer, delving into the captivating world of her upbringing as a Japanese woman.
Yoshika, adorned in a stunning traditional blue kimono and zori shoes, treated the group to a delectable homemade lunch featuring her signature egg drop soup, fried rice, sandwiches, and an exquisite Japanese sponge cake.
The intricacies of donning a kimono were unveiled, emphasizing the diminishing tradition due to the high cost of these beautiful garments. Made from a single piece of silk, each is hand embroidered, making authentic kimonos rare and expensive.
The strong emphasis on family ties and tradition in Japan became evident as Yoshika shared her family’s legacy of crafting beautiful pottery. Passing down these traditions from the eldest to the younger generations is a cherished practice, keeping the cultural flame alive. Yoshika proudly showcased pottery created by her nephew using a special regional clay.
The presentation touched on Japanese punctuality and the custom of bowing as a greeting rather than a handshake—a cultural nuance that adds depth to daily interactions. Always take a small hostess gift, usually food, as Yoshika told us about how her mother loved Russell Stover candies. On her yearly trips home, Yoshika would always take one big box for her mother and 20 of the tiny boxes her mother could use as hostess gifts. Amidst the questions that peppered Yoshika’s engaging presentation, the group gained valuable insights into Japanese life and culture.
The journey continued with a fascinating exploration of the Matcha Tea Ceremony ritual. Under Yoshika’s careful guidance, each participant crafted their own bowl of matcha tea using traditional Japanese utensils. The ceremony, complete with hot water from an iron pot, powdered matcha tea, and a bamboo matcha whisk, culminated in a shared understanding of the ritual’s significance. The tradition of drinking the tea in three and a half sips from the bowl added a unique touch to the experience.
As the afternoon concluded, the group left with a deeper appreciation for Yoshika and a richer understanding of Japanese culture. The Women Sharing Hope’s Prayer, Praise, and Play Groups, designed to foster friendships and spiritual growth, continue to create unique experiences for their members.
For those interested in joining these meaningful gatherings or exploring new PPP groups, contact Theresa Peoples at 214-577-4616 or [email protected].
Women Sharing Hope also extends its outreach programs to support the Robson Ranch community, including a Widows Support program, Robson Angels supporting caregivers, Games for Dames, and more. To be a part of this community that focuses on developing friendships, growing in faith, and sharing God’s love, connect with Catherine Simpson at 817-707-7709 or [email protected] and sign up for Punchbowl invitations.