A simple cup of coffee. The kindness and caffeine made my morning.

I was the “designated driver” while my friend had an oral surgery procedure requiring sedation. When I asked if I could go grab a cup of coffee and return, I was politely but firmly told “no.” So I settled in with my book, though slightly annoyed, knowing the procedure would take nearly two hours. What could they do if I broke the rules? But I’m not a rule breaker by nature.

A bit later, one of the office staff approached and asked if she could bring me a cup of coffee. From their break room. She told me the creamer and sweetener options and soon reappeared with a lovely steaming cup. The coffee, and especially the kindness, brightened my morning and my time in that waiting room.

It took me back to a few weeks ago, when my husband had a procedure requiring sedation in the hospital. It was 6 a.m., so when he was taken back, I headed for the hospital coffee shop. An elderly man, using a cane, struggled to his feet but didn’t know where to go. I said I knew the way and invited him to join me. We slowly made the long walk together, and our conversation on that walk was delightful. Again, the caffeine and connection were day brighteners.

All for the love of a cup of coffee.

Maybe this is why I love coffee shops so much. People are usually friendly, whether working, reading, or meeting with others. Baristas get to know their regulars and create a welcoming atmosphere. Sometimes I work in coffee shops, but most often, they are simply my favorite social spots with friends.

Earlier this week, a close friend and I met at our favorite coffee shop for 2 hours of talking and book swapping. She loaned me a copy of a book she had recently discovered and loved called Theo of Golden. How perfect that the novel’s storyline starts in a coffee shop! More about it in my next book blog, but the novel embodies the warmth and kindness we all need in our lives. It was delightful.

How lucky am I to have friends who share my love of coffee and books? Grateful.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                photo: lil artsy