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Drawing by Caryn Corliss

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I indulge in it every day, two times, sometimes three, maybe even four. I crave it. No matter what mood I’m in, it’s always there. My regrets, my successes, it’s all behind it. It haunts me, my thoughts, my dreams, all I am is because of it. It is my life.

Before your mind wanders too far, let me set things straight. No, I am not hooked on an illicit white, powdery substance that would probably put me in jail for a very long time. No need to even think about rehabilitating me. Let me tell you about my drug of choice: coffee.

My day starts at 5:50 a.m., on weekdays, and when I’m feeling like I hate everything and everyone in the world, my good friend coffee patiently waits to be poured. Through the years I’ve become more cynical and the only way I can get back to the bright and sunny demeanor I once had is through a cup or two of coffee.

Now let me set something straight: I am not a coffee racist who snubs other types of coffee or other brands. I am not some pretentious hipster who only drinks artisan coffee with hand-picked beans from Puerto Rico. I’m just a simpleton in the coffee world. I like all kinds of coffee, hot or cold, instant or ground. If it helps keep my eyes open and tastes mediocre or better, then I’m up for it.

I realize there are some (very few) reasons why coffee isn’t the best for me, but think of all the positives. Coffee stimulates your brain, which can improve mood, reaction time, memory, vigilance and even cognitive function. Coffee can also lower the risk of many medical conditions such as Type II Diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Also, believe it or not, coffee isn’t just black water- a single cup of coffee contains a decent amount of vitamins and minerals, including potassium and riboflavin, not to mention the many antioxidants.

I plan on drinking coffee until the day Earth cannot handle me anymore, regardless of how many times my mother complains it gives me too much energy or might even yellow my teeth. So here it is, I admit it, I am completely and utterly addicted to the delicious liquid that is coffee. And to be honest, I’m proud of it.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][/vc_column][/vc_row]