The Procedure

This section describes the mechanics of the practice. You don't need to follow the procedure precisely. If you want to follow it at first, though — to become familiar with it — then that's fine. The point is to establish a pattern and a rhythm that works for you, and then stick with it. It may take several weeks to develop this into a "conscious habit."

One benefit of having a set procedure is that you can use it as a yardstick: the less you follow it — skip steps or do them out of order — the more "spaced out" you are.

The Set Up:

1. Gather all the ingredients and tools, except the cream. Place them on the counter.

2. Pour the water into the ceramic cup. Use whatever amount your coffee maker recommends.

3. Put the ceramic cup in the microwave and heat it for 1½ minutes or for however long it takes to boil the water. This speeds up the process. Purists can skip this part and boil the water in the coffee pot on the stove. Not using the microwave adds about 5 minutes to the process.

4. While the water is heating, fill the brewing basket with coffee and pack it tightly. When full, set the basket somewhere stable (other than in the coffee base). Put the coffee back in the freezer.

5. By the time you are finished filling the basket, the water should have boiled. Pour it into the base of the coffee pot, and then put the basket into the base. Screw on the collection chamber tightly.

6. Place the coffee maker on the stove and turn the heat to High.

7. While the coffee is brewing, put a tablespoon of xylitol (or however much suits your taste) into the cup and then put the container of xylitol gracefully away. Add ¼ teaspoon of chocomine (or however much suits your taste) in the cup, and then put the chocomine away.

8. When the coffee starts to percolate, turn the heat down to Medium High. This reduces the risk of it boiling over.

9. When the percolating stops, immediately turn off the heat and remove the coffee maker.

10. Pour the coffee into the cup.

11. Set the coffee maker in the sink, and then run some water over and in it. This helps keep the pot from staining.

12. Stir the coffee well to mix the xylitol and chocomine.

13. Take the cream out of the refrigerator and add a little to the coffee. Stir again.

14. Put away the cream.

15. Wash and dry the spoon, and then put it away.

16. Drink the coffee.

17. Wash and dry the cup. Store it with the other tools and ingredients.

18. Wash and dry the coffee pot and then put it away. Note: You can put the coffee grounds around the base of roses or other plants. They love it!

19. Clean the counter.

20. Thank God for allowing you to have those experiences.

That's it: very mundane (except the last step). Now, here's the Zen part.