In the book, "Three Cups of Tea, a man initially sets out to climb one of the highest peaks, K2, but loses his way and ends up in the most remotest area in the Northern Areas. The first man he meets is Haji Ali, who imparts this wisdom to the lost traveller:

"The first time you share tea with a Balti, you are a stranger. The second time you take tea, you are an honored guest. The third time you share a cup of tea, you become family.

During my encounters with the people in the Northern areas, chai (tea) was offered to us everywhere we went. Sometimes chai was served with boiled eggs, trout, or dried fruits. Never did we leave some one's home without a warm cup of chai. If you were to say, "No, thank you," the reply would be, "but this is our culture!" Another common expression was, "wont you stay for a meal?" Their warm welcomes and beautiful spirits made this trip truly exceptional.

We actually had to make home visits for work purposes. However, during these "chai sessions" the atmosphere would completely change. Mind you we accomplished quite a bit of work but there was a sense of comfort and soon enough bonds of friendship were suddenly formed. Jokes were made and stories were shared.

The funny thing is that it didn't take 3 cups of tea for us to become a family. 1 cup was more than enough.

I never realized the power of chai until now. We have tea on a regular basis and if you are of African or Indo-Pak decent, your day consists of up to 5 cups of chai. I have realized that chai brings people together. When amongst family and friends, one can sit for long hours with a cup of chai. One topic leads to another and time passes by swiftly! Even when one is dealing with life's problems, a cup of chai with close ones is extremely comforting. Even when chai is shared with complete strangers, it does not take long for friendships to be forged. I assume it is not the contents of chai (black tea) as herbal tea serves the same purpose. I guess I am still trying to understand this phenomenon.