Give Freely & Be Kind...

I was totally intending to do the obligatory Resolution post: do a cleanse, lose 100 lbs, be organized, blah, etc. Obviously that motivation came and went. But this morning I was reminded of a greater goal in which to be resolute: be kind, be thoughtful. I went later than usual to my regular Starbucks; I have been out of my morning routine since Christmas and haven't been there over the holidays. One of my favorite baristas, Patrick, went to work on my drink before I'd even ordered (creature of habit), and when I made my way to the pick up counter he handed me an envelope and gave me a hug. He had written me a holiday card wishing me happy holidays and thanking me for being a valued customer. He had been carrying it in his apron pocket since the day before Christmas, waiting for me to come in. The front is a statement from Starbucks called "Why We're Here". It reads: To provide an uplifting experience that enriches people's daily lives. It may seem sappy, but that's exactly what Patrick and his co-workers do. They do their jobs with gusto and always with a smile, often at an hour when I personally dislike everyone, and still go an extra mile to spread cheer and joy. It made my eyes do that thing where they water. It reminded me that we could all take a cue from them: smile more, care more and give more. The little Pinspiration I found above highlighted some of these qualities I see every morning at my local coffee shop. If we're going to make resolutions, it should be these things, and I'm going to challenge myself to be more like my barista this year. 

If you're wondering Raleighans, (yup, I made that up) it's the Starbucks in Cameron Village. Go give Patrick a hug. I also recommend the Starbucks across from the movie theater in North Hills.