Tea

I step in the door, see 3 people sitting around a tea kettle.

"Hey, how are you? I bought some of your tea at the market, so I figured I'd stop by and check the place out."

"Cool, would you like to sit down for some tea?"

Of course I would. It seems very inviting, and though the shop is extremely small, it's comfortable. In walks another guy who is friends of those already sitting.

"Sure..." I say, "Do you work here?"

"No, I just pour tea."

"This place sure is cozy huh?"

"Yea, it is."

"I like it in here, it's quiet and nice and chill."

"It is, isn't it? It has a really good vibe doesn't it?"

Random conversation ensues, probably half an hour passes. The energy is extremely positive, like I've never seen before. Four people sitting around drinking tea. 4 in the afternoon. Nothing negative, I didn't even feel like I shouldn't have been there.

"Do many people stop in here?"

"Some, a lot of people come to the window and look in then walk away. Some come in, they either sit for tea then get up right away to leave, or offer us money. We tell them, no, it's free. But some come in and stay ... like you ... I think people who are supposed to find this place find it."

An hour goes by. Another guy who actually does work there comes in. He sits. Talks about a vision he had of speaking with a cockroach. After about 40 minutes he finally realizes that he doesn't know me. We exchange introductions. Another 15 minutes later they begin a jam session.

Anyway, 2 hours later. I leave. What an interesting experience. And 5 blocks from my house.