Chapter 1: The Search for Coffee

As a writer, I find immense joy in the simple pleasure of coffee. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee acts as a catalyst for my creativity. While I prefer my coffee iced and with a hint of sweetness, it remains a crucial part of my daily routine. However, one morning, I faced a challenge—I had just relocated to a new apartment and was uncertain where to find my beloved coffee.

In my quest, I stumbled upon a local coffee shop, a concept that differs significantly from Western establishments. In Singapore, a coffee shop resembles a bustling food court, offering a variety of affordable dishes alongside countless cups of coffee.

Upon entering, I was met with a surprising sight: a long line of patrons, all waiting patiently in the sweltering heat for their fix from a shop called Kopi More, which advertised “Local blend coffee!” Intrigued by the crowd, I decided to join the queue, believing that such a turnout indicated the quality of the coffee.

The wait was over thirty minutes, yet it was surprisingly pleasant. The shop played classical music, and I found myself captivated by the enchanting melodies filling the air. A masterful cello piece played through the speakers, creating a serene atmosphere.

Lost in the music, I was suddenly jolted back to reality as it was my turn to order. I mustered the courage to ask the barista about the song that had so engrossed me. With kind, sharp eyes, he introduced himself as Lawrence and shared that the piece was Hauser’s Cello Adagio. Our brief conversation revealed a shared appreciation for classical music, and he expressed interest in my writing. After receiving my coffee, he encouraged me to return.

From that day forward, I became a regular at Kopi More. The coffee was consistently excellent, and the long lines never deterred me. Each visit was accompanied by a new classical piece that invigorated my spirit and inspired my writing.

One day, as I stood in line, I was struck by curiosity and asked Lawrence about the secret to his success in drawing such crowds. I expected a whimsical response about the art of coffee-making, but his answer was far more profound.

Lawrence, straightening up and looking me in the eye, revealed, “The secret to my success is thinking about crushing it every day.” Initially confused, I realized he meant he focused on impressing his customers, ensuring each cup left them wanting more.

With this revelation, I left the shop, pondering his words. I later learned that Lawrence had previously been a successful petroleum trader before turning to coffee-making after a career setback. This experience shaped his approach, blending artistry with a drive to excel.

The takeaway? It's essential to look beyond appearances. As Machiavelli once said, “Everyone sees what you appear to be, few experience what you really are.” Each person holds untold stories and depth within them, waiting to be discovered.

This lesson is vital not only for writers seeking to create authentic characters but for everyone navigating life. Embracing curiosity and empathy enriches our experiences, even during mundane moments like ordering coffee.

And in our interconnected world, this understanding is more crucial than ever.

Chapter 2: The Power of Perception

The video titled "One Of The Most Inspirational Speeches From Gangsters | Father Gregory Boyle | Goalcast" highlights the importance of seeing beyond the surface of individuals and understanding their true potential.