Why work in the coffee industry?

Why coffee?

Obviously the community, the people, the good coffee. More than that, after 8 years of serving my community I know that having a space that fosters human connection can mean more to people than anyone could put into words. Coffee is a powerful driver and has supported people through the toughest of times. Local coffee shops serve as a constant in their lives, being a place they can always access and the people that serve them will always be there. I mean, until your favorite barista quits. I wouldn't be where I am today without coffee and all the people I've had the absolute pleasure of getting to know. I love when I am the "first" to know very deep and personal facts about peoples lives. "I'm pregnant" "I'm getting divorced" " My wife has cancer". It always amazes me what people are comfortable sharing in those moments. I know partially it's because I have no connection to their personal lives, but I still believe there has to be some trust in all that. I am happy that I could be that relief for them. I get chills thinking about all the people I've had the honor of getting to know. I discovered this word recently; "Sonder — noun. the realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own." I think of it constantly now and how powerful that realization can be, to allow empathy into our everyday interactions. So important, especially in the service industry.