Coffee has been around for about 500 years, and I’ve been drinking it almost as long. Within these centuries, it has changed again and again — Now with drink orders that contain over 500 words themselves. 

Still, perhaps the most popular drink here in France is the espresso. 

They gave us two espresso cups (demitasses) from their vacation. I made the coffee from our espresso machine. Nothing unusual. But when I picked up the cup, it felt different. Easy. Comfortable. I put the cup down and looked at the handle. The top part was flat. My thumb rested so simply, and made the most pleasurable grip on the cup. Such a simple change, and the coffee was the same, but the drinking experience felt new and delightful.

We get used to receiving things in a certain way. Giving things in a certain way. And just because it has functioned for 500 years or so, doesn’t mean it’s really working at its best. Take love for instance. We all give it and receive it in different ways. When it doesn’t come in the way we think we need, is it wrong? I want to say no. Oh, how I want to say no. I need to see it for what it is. Still love. I must learn to receive it in the way it is given. And serve it in the best way I know how. Love and life, forever can improve.

Good morning, my friends. There is coffee on the table. And kindness in the air.