Cup

The customary family ritual of courtship, called Görücülük in the Turkish tradition, was often a stressful event for all involved. The future groom's family visits the bride-to-be and her parents to officially ask for her hand.

All are intensely observing as the two families become acquainted. It's so stressful because nothing less than the entire future was at stake, and a lifetime of happiness the prize.

Zehra looked over to her love Ahmet as he chatted with her parents on their old, French Colonial couch. She was always startled anew by how handsome he was, how his strong and kindly voice alone quickened her heart.

Everyone seemed to get along, and Zehra prayed their home was acceptable to her well-to-do future in-laws. Her own parents seemed at ease, and the cordial atmosphere of friendly hospitality prevailed. Zehra had always learned that welcoming guests to the home was the signature Turkish value, the most important custom going back to ancient times. 

The moment came for Zehra to formally serve freshly brewed coffee to her future in-laws. She had rehearsed this part in her mind a hundred times. Carrying out the silver tray very carefully, Zehra set it down in perfect slow-motion, as if feather-touch landing a big 747.

Then, her hand visibly shaking, she brought the rich, frothy elixir close to the ornate cup- but it caught the edge, spilling onto the saucer. Zehra was mortified, her worse nightmare realized, and a sense of horror swept over her; she froze for a second, hanging her head in disappointment.

Expecting an evil eye or worse, Zehra then looked up to see her fiancee's parents smiling broadly. Ahmet's mother said very simply, "Don't be upset, my dear. I already like you. I saw how you looked at my son. I know he will be happy. Now, come sit next to me, I'll tell you about my courting days." 

Zehra exhaled slowly, near tears, realizing she had held her breath in pure fright. Well then, knock on wood, she thought- the future was going well after all.