By Aaron Harder
If you don’t drink coffee right now, that’s awesome. However, that will probably change by the time you graduate from college. During my first two years of college, I did not partake in the consumption of this wonderful drink. But by my junior year, I had developed a lovely habit of drinking coffee. So why should you care about whether or not you drink coffee…well, the truth is you shouldn’t.
I love coffee – not just because of the taste, but also because it is something that reminds me to slow down and rest. The times I love to drink coffee are not necessarily the times when I need caffeine. I love to drink coffee during my quiet time, when hanging out with friends and while with my family on holiday or vacation.
For me coffee is a reminder to forget the stress of life and to enjoy the moment. In college, both the past and future are constantly on students’ minds. We tend to dwell in the past when reflecting on previous mistakes or life experiences. Plus, college students always tell funny stories of things they did freshman year or crazy moments in high school. At the same time, everyone is always asking your about your future plans after graduation. You only spend roughly four years at college, so thinking about what comes after is somewhat natural. So trying to be present while in college can be difficult.
So for me, relaxing and drinking a cup of good coffee helps me slow down and enjoy where I’m at in life. It is a way for me to be present in life, not focused on the past or future. It is similar to how God designed the Sabbath – work, work, work, then rest and refocus on the present and on God.
Therefore, “coffee” is actually incredibly important in college. Not only is it delicious and stimulating, but having time for “coffee” is really about being present in a world that blurs by at times. Whether or not you drink coffee, find your way to spend time being present and content in the moment. If not, college life will pass before you ever enjoy it.