I sit back in my comfortable modern chair, glancing around the room at people passing through. I listen to the soothing music. Soft jazz music plays in the background. Just quiet enough to allow soft conversing between those out for coffee with an old friend, but loud enough to fill the silence surrounding someone that has entered to sit alone and enjoy their afternoon coffee. Every time the door is opened and a new costumer enters, you hear the loud noises of the outside world. It’s like this serene world is completely separated from all outside influences. I feel as if all my problems have been lifted away as I sit back and sip on my rich hot chocolate. This shelter from the harshness of the outside world is some well needed relaxation for many.
Ironically, I listen to a soothing song called Coffee Break. It’s about reflecting on the meaning of life and growing old. The man in the song describes himself sitting alone in a coffee shop. “I’m turning my cell off just to breathe, ‘cause everyone I know just keeps calling me and I just need a little time.” This is a prime example of a coffee shop being an escape from reality and the rough times in life. Looking out the window, I see busy people leading busy lives, looking both ways before crossing the intersection. Some enter the shop and get a coffee to go and continue with these lives, others stay for a while and read a book or the paper. It is easy to see why people choose this as a resting destination between the busy tasks of the day.
As I sit, everyone who enters seems to leave with a hint of a smile on their face. Some smile and even wave at me as they exit back into the real world, coffee in hand. Not only is this a little shop on the corner of the street that sells coffee, it is a refreshing change of pace for most. It is a place of serenity and happiness. It is the thing that most days lack. A place where you can step back and reflect. Reflect on what has occurred today up to this moment, and what you would like to occur for the remainder of the day. Some believe that the amount of coffee shops on every street is unnecessary. I believe that they are needed, and without them the world would not be the same place.
