“Let’s meet up this week and go get coffee!” This statement has woven its way into the tapestry of my life over the past four years at Lee University. Each week, it’s within the comforting embrace of a coffee shop that I forge deeper connections with both new acquaintances and cherished friends. Amidst the fragrant steam of our lattes, the soft glow of ambient lighting, and the creak of worn wooden chairs, I discover the heartbeat of those around me, and the gentle whispers of God in their stories. These moments, seemingly simple yet profoundly meaningful, hold an exquisite beauty that transcends the ordinary. My series may appear, at first glance, to be merely a depiction of pour overs, portafilters, and lattes. However, the true narrative lies not within these objects themselves, but rather in the stories they symbolize. My endeavor has been to capture the essence of this beauty, to show the quiet magic that unfolds in the backdrop of our everyday lives—the moments of fellowship, laughter, vulnerability, and transformation that transpires over a cup of coffee. For it is within these mundane moments that the richest experiences of community and connection are found.

So, here’s to every person who has shared their heart over a simple cup of coffee. May you recognize the profound beauty that resides within these fleeting yet timeless moments.