“Whether we experience what happens to us as obstacle and enemy or as a teacher and friend depends entirely on our perception of reality. It depends on our relationship with ourselves.”
Pema Chödrön
Weather app says it’s −11° and feels like -24°. They are spot on. We also had a dusting of snow overnight. After quiet time I made myself a bhakti chai, wrapped a blanket around myself, settled in for some reading and journaling. After my phone call with Eric I drove to Starry Night because today is Stephen’s last day as my barista. He’s a very good barista and very personable, one of my favorites. No one who walks in will feel like a stranger when he is working. So, I wanted to say goodby on his last day. He has been working and studying to be an EMT and was just hired by the fire department in Johnstown. I enjoy watching as young people move on to new paths. I’ve seen that a lot with baristas, which means I have to train another barista. Good luck and have fun, Stephen! Its now 11:43 am and we’ve warmed up to −6°.
8 Comments
Faye White
Wishing Stephen good luck in his new career. EMT – no boring job there. And training a new barista … I know you can do it, Monte.
Monte Stevens
Yes, I’m sure I can train a new barista. Wait a minute, maybe they’re gonna need to train me! 😂 I am hoping only the best for Stephen!
Tom Dills
We’ve found over the years that the best servers and bartenders are the ones with talent and ambition to move on to bigger things. One of our favorite bartenders originally had a degree in criminal justice, was one of the top bartenders in Charlotte for years and is now working in data security for one of the large banks after having gone back to school in his off hours. Food service is a career for some, but a stepping stone for others.
The new barista will likely be just as good as Stephen, but as you suggest *you* may be the one who needs trained! Our previous hair stylist moved away a year ago and we’re still settling in to the new one. She’s good but not the old one. Time to move on!
Monte Stevens
I believe you are correct. It seems most of the baristas I’ve encountered are students so after graduations they move on. A student working as a barista is a cool gig. One barista I’ve known for a few years will sometimes sit and chat before heading off to teach his class at CSU. I hve not met the new barista but I heard she is much cuter than Stephen. No offense Stephen!
Mark
Such cultivated relationships are meaningful, even if short-lived.
I am guessing his new job will involve maybe some significantly different stresses, but hopefully even better rewards.
Monte Stevens
I do cherish these short-lived relationships. Those who I have know to work as EMT or firemen do face some heart-wrenching situations. Takes a certain individual to work in such fields. Cold as heck here and looks to be the same for you. Stay warm!!
geri oster
Isn’t it wonderful when we can acknowledge and get to know by name and personality those gifted service folks our Higher Power puts in our daily lives, and wish them goodness, prosperity and peace. Best wishes, Stephen!
Monte Stevens
Yes, it is wonderful. Relationships have become vital over the past few years. Probably because I have learned how to be in a healthy relationship. Took me a few years to learn how. Stau warm!!