Dearly Beloved,

Thank you for the question, “What is your favorite drink?” I will try my best to answer this question wisely and well. Coffee is not just a drink for me. I,t is a daily ritual, a source of comfort, and a connection to cultures and experiences around the world. From the first sip to the last drop, my love for coffee is a journey. It starts with carefully selecting Fogger, (medium dark roasted) beans and extends to savoring each cup.

Every morning, I take the time to brew my coffee myself. I let the beans soak and delay the brew for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop fully. This process, though simple, is my way of ensuring that every cup is right. There is something incredibly satisfying about starting my day with a cup of coffee that I have crafted with care.

Sometimes, when I am out, I treat myself to a visit to Starbucks. Nevertheless there is nothing quite like enjoying coffee in the comfort of my home. My love for coffee is not just about the drink itself. It is the experience and the moments of peace and reflection that come with it.

One unforgettable coffee experience was when an Ethiopian colleague invited me to her home for a traditional coffee ceremony. It was a journey that began with roasting the coffee beans, followed by grinding them using ancient milling stones. The aroma of the freshly roasted beans filled the air. The meticulous process of grinding and brewing the coffee was a remarkable sight. As the coffee was finally ready, she poured it into tiny cups. We all gathered to enjoy this rich, aromatic beverage. It was more than just a cup of coffee; it was a celebration of tradition, hospitality, and shared stories.

The story of coffee is as rich and complex as its flavors. Legend has it that coffee was first, discovered in the Ethiopian highlands by a goat herder named Kaldi. Kaldi was intrigued by the unusual energy his goats displayed after eating bright red berries. Kaldi tried them himself and felt a surge of vitality. This magical discovery soon spread, and coffee became a beloved beverage around the world.

From the bustling markets of the Arabian Peninsula to the cozy cafes of Europe and beyond, coffee has connected people and cultures. Each cup tells a story, and for me, every sip is a reminder of the journey from bean to brew. Coffee is more than just my favorite drink. It is a part of my life, a source of joy, relaxation and a way to connect with others.

Beloved, coffee can be addictive and result in a withdrawal syndrome especially with instant stoppage. You already know that coffee can cause hyperactive and insomnia depending on the time of the day you take it. Although, I have not experienced digestive issues caused by coffee as drinkers have reported. When I experience an upset stomach, indigestion, or heartburn after taking coffee, I realize that it was not the coffee. It was the coffee creamer that caused it. The truth is coffee indeed can exaggerate blood pressure after consumption, so study your reactions before you continue with coffee. Overall coffee is good for me, and I am not quitting it.

Thank you,

Chinyeremea.