Enjoying my Monday morning coffee
Like many Americans, I enjoy a good cup of coffee in the morning. As a country, Americans drink over 146 billion cups of coffee a year. You don’t have to drive too far in any town or city, and you will find a Starbucks or other gourmet coffee place. Most people need that jolt of caffeine before getting their day off to a good start. And I think this is the especially true about Monday mornings.
A survey of 4300 Americans found that Monday was the least favorite day of the week. 58% disliked Monday the most when compared to any other day. During all my years as a student and teacher, I also disliked Mondays. However, that changed a few years ago when my wife and I began attending our church’s Monday morning coffee group at Hope Lutheran Church in Eau Claire. Monday is now one of my favorite days. And it is all because I have my morning coffee with great friends.
There are between ten and 16 of us on a given Monday. We are all retired, and we have had varied professions. We have two topics we try to avoid. We try not to discuss politics or religion. Other than that, most any subject is fair game. Of course, at times, health issues dominate our discussions. I am now somewhat knowledgeable of numerous health oddities I never knew existed two years ago.
My “coffee family” is not embarrassed to share the laughter and tears that come with growing older. We have cried over the unexpected passing of members in our group and the illnesses of others. But our support for one another during difficult times is so important and comforting. But the laughter we share far outweighs our moments of sadness and grief. Friends of mine ask me how we find things to talk about for two hours every Monday morning of the year. At our age, that is relatively easy. Most of us don’t remember from week to week what we talk about, so I am sure we repeat the same stories more than once. And then, when six conversations are going on simultaneously, getting any meaningful exploit intact is challenging. When one ear hears that someone’s granddaughter is expecting, and the other hears that someone in our group has been to the doctor, we come up with some fascinating conclusions. Studies show that coffee could support brain health and lower the risk of depression. Studies also show that laughter can increase oxygen to the lungs and heart and reduce pain. So, it is just possible that Monday morning coffee with my zany friends might help to extend my life. And I plan to continue my Monday morning coffee time for as long as possible.
Be Our
G uest
