Coffee Hour

When I was a kid, I remember my mom regularly visiting with our sweet neighbor from Mexico. They sat around the table talking, drinking coffee, and eating some amazing Mexican cuisine. Sometimes it felt like they were at it for hours. Both of my parents worked full-time jobs. My dad also traveled a lot, so needless to say, there was some stress in my mom’s life with three wild kids. However, when she had her coffee with our neighbor, it was easy to see that these moments helped to alleviate her stress. It was more than the coffee (and awesome food). It was the time taken with another mom who connected well and enjoyed a small moment together to debrief. Without these interactions, I am not sure she would have kept her sanity.

A few nights ago, some English students asked what we loved most about Costa Rica. I thought for a second about my answer and eventually said, “coffee hour.” I looked back at them and had to chuckle when I saw their proud, smiling faces—they knew exactly what I was talking about!

Honestly, I am more of a “tea girl.” I never drank a full cup of coffee with delight in my 45 years of life before coming to Costa Rica. In fact, it’s not really the coffee that I like (although I enjoy it more now than ever). It’s the entire experience!

In most Latin American countries, there is a rest period beginning around one in the afternoon until around three. During this time, people rest. Most people we encounter don’t have air conditioning, so it kind of makes sense to us, as it is super hot and humid. In Costa Rica, beginning at about two in the afternoon, and ending about an hour or two later (or more), there is usually coffee and bread to be shared.

If I were to walk down the street of our neighborhood around this time, I would see some of my neighbors outside, and nine times out of ten, I am invited to share cafécita y pan (a little coffee and bread). When someone doesn’t drink coffee, they are offered a fresca (a juice or soft drink, but most likely fresh juice). Sometimes there are homemade tortillas or picadillo (YUMMY YUMMY food that is popular here), or anything that is on hand in their home. After everyone has been served, there is conversation about anything and everything. From family to community events, and in our case, the differences in culture and language that end in a lesson or two. We pray the rosary together. We talk about the past and our ideas to save the world from its “deteriorating” state. We even talk about politics…peacefully.

We just chill…with a cup of hot coffee and a portion of food to tie us over until dinner. It’s peaceful, insightful, encouraging, and just GLORIOUS.

When we tell the locals that “coffee hour” is not currently a common practice for many in the States, people are often shocked.

“And why not?” they ask.

I guess we can all agree that we know this answer pretty well. Busyness and distraction make us susceptible to believing we don’t have the time or energy to take on one more thing. Unless we intentionally plan it (or if our power goes out), our days are full and controlled.

However, when we stop to visit our neighbors, regardless of how the day is playing out, there is a deeper connection and an immense peace that profoundly impacts us when we depart. Our “problems” still exist, and reality is not neglected, but there is a much-needed, life-giving rest that fills us and encourages us to continue on.

The people of Costa Rica are known to be relaxed and peaceful. In fact, the favorite sayings we hear are pura vida (no worries) and tranquila (calm down). Maybe the people of Costa Rica are on to something. Either way, we totally recommend making the effort to call someone for coffee, fresca, or whatever you can share. We guarantee that you won’t regret it!