The Last Cup Before the Curtain

Every day, I make hundreds of coffees.

Some black. 

Some white with milk. 

Some with sugar, 

some with nothing at all.

And occasionally  a dash of syrup,

sprinkle chocolate or cinnamon on top. 

A small act of defiance. 

A mask for the monotony.

A garnish for the grief.

And I wonder

How many of these customers are living in the shadows? 

How many are content? 

How many are just surviving?

Is this cup for enjoyment? 

A ritual? 

Or a last attempt to give their soul a boost before stepping back into the world?

If it’s for enjoyment, 

I’ll serve you and hold on to a bit of that joy. 

If it’s for a boost, 

I’ll piggyback and boost myself a little too.

And if it’s your last attempt to keep things together, 

I’ll serve you my best coffee 

and give your back a gentle push.

What you’re going through is not worth coming to the shadows. 

Stay in the light. 

I hope my coffee helps you get through all the things you never talk about.

I serve it whatever way you like

Hot. 

Cold.

With some garnish on top.

Quietly. 

With my well rehearsed smile.