My favourite coffee roaster had several new varieties in stock. While I have tasted some of the countries, several specific areas and beans were new to me. Given my preferred tasting notes, I was open to hearing the details from the representative.
“This one has dark chocolate notes with layers of toffee nuts behind it. It is available in a medium roast, preserving the bean’s profile, flavours, and amount of caffeine.”
Everything sounded good. I had no doubts until I was offered a sample. At that moment, I wondered if my experience would be anything like what had been described.
Life reminds me of the notes of hope, kindness, and care. Despite the evidence and my history, I hear and begin to wonder as She invites me to live the values out in the moment I have. Will it be the same as I imagine? What about my wants and needs? Shouldn’t we start there?
Hope changes my perspective. Each experience of hope reminds me of the possibilities within reach that I could not imagine without it. Hope is a light that is filled with opportunities. When it is present, I find myself looking forward. Without it, I am trapped by rearview mirrors and the pull to see what is below.
Kindness is linked to acceptance and respect. One is never separated from the others. When I start with acceptance and enhance this with respect, kindness follows. It is a formula that builds relationships.
Care is the actions and glue of a community wrapped in hope and riven by kindness.
As I lifted the espresso, I wondered about those who turned away from this opportunity. “Who were the people who turned a deaf ear? Weren’t they the very ones Moses led out of Egypt?” (Hebrews 3.16)
I sipped the coffee and found myself deep in dark chocolate, aware of the touch of toffee nuts. It was so good. As I enjoyed the gift, I rediscovered a formula I will use for the day ahead. Each note is a guide and reminder of my calling and mission.
