“Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think. It’s splendid to find out there are so many of them in the world.” - Anne Shirley
You can tell the coffee shop is designed to bring together those with a common ground. Ha get it? "Common ground?" Kindred Coffee is a cute little shop in the North Richland Hills area of Texas. Nestled at the end of a little strip mall, the rosy red brick matches perfectly with the wooden and steel patio furniture lining the sidewalk. A mini forest of Christmas trees shimmered in the corner near the register and the smell of dark roast coffee filled your lungs instantly. It creates a warm and welcoming environment for anyone who entered. The holiday menu, adorned with mistletoe, featured the best of the season's flavors. Glancing around, you couldn't miss the array of people either studying or chatting as they catch up from Thanksgiving dinner. The gentle hum of conversation broke as a group giggled about this year's mishaps that led to ordering Chinese dinner. And then there's me. Wrapped in my comfiest of clothes: simple black leggings and a forest green sweater; patiently waiting for my friend to arrive to divulge the latest goings-on in her life.
I ordered off the seasonal menu, looking to bring a new favorite in my life. I struggle with finding something that I love, and only trying that or a variation of it wherever I go. It's safe. Every time the familiar favorite provides me comfort in a space where I feel out of place. Of course, when it comes to the Christmas season, that will always be my peppermint mocha. I don't know if it's the kick of the mint or the dark chocolate that swirls around it that I love. But that combination of chocolate and mint, always seemed to solve the world's problems. So, especially when I try someplace new, I can always count on that sweet taste of nostalgia to keep me grounded in my new experience. But today, I feel somewhat adventurous; I scan the menu and land on The Log Cabin.
In a sleek black mug, smooth to the touch, was a sweet cappuccino. Elevated with brown sugar and a dash of all spice. Of course it wouldn't be complete without the spiral of cold whipped cream to contradict the warmth of the drink. Surprisingly delicious, I let the new experience dance along my taste buds. I take the time to reflect on the new experience; and I think we forget how simple it can be to try something new. Something as simple as ordering this drink. It doesn't have to be going on a soul searching journey. And it certainly doesn't have to be picking up and moving halfway across the world. It can be as simple as trying a new dish at a restaurant or wearing an outfit in a different way. The more we embrace change in our daily life, the easier it is to put ourselves in different situations and maybe meet another kindred spirit. I think that's one thing that I love about the world. No matter where you go, you will almost always find someone who you click with and can talk about things. You just have to be bold enough to put yourself out there.
As I sip on the last of my Log Cabin and my friend finishes her story, I am reminded of Anne's words. It's splendid indeed to find out that there are so many kindred spirits in the world. I am glad after only a few months in Texas, I have seemed to find a few friends with kindred spirits. Who knows, there may be others that are out there for me to meet. They may simply be waiting for a chance to be discovered in a new place.
Until next time, stay curious and let's wander - after coffee of course.
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