Poetry to the Editor: ‘A Cup of Contentment’
In our fast-paced, money-driven world where evolution of ego
has lampooned and common decency and humanity diminished..
Don’t you simply yearn for the places of yesteryear?
The old mom and pop joints, of old radios and checkered linoleum floor
A place like the sitcom “Cheers”, where smiles greet you at the very door
Instead of a frothy beer, how about a cozy cup of Joe ?
Instead of a shot of liquor, how about an espresso?
Forget the cosmos, get a latte of love from a barista of big heart
Or an sip from an Italian soda, for a sweet start
How about fresh-roasted beans of benevolence that flourish abound
Believe it or not, I know where this dwelling can be found.
The owners know their customers by name, taste and drinks
They offer friendship, warmth and some may say even act as shrinks
You can pick among their genuine gelatos and coffees of camaraderie
their smoothies of sincerity and warm-hearted biscotti
I relish in the fresh teas of inner tranquility and solidarity that I find
When I frequent this coffeehouse of cheer and honest humankind
Always a “hello” and an authentic concern for my being,
They know my flavor, my cup.you see, it is rather freeing
Pop, Frank, Mickey, Joey, Jaedi and JP are truly an altruistic family
Their greetings, empathy, and compassion can be found
Within the very walls. all around
The impersonal chains of others sever that kinship we desperately need
Here, the nostalgic ambiance of goodness and soul is palpable, indeed
Their cookies of comfort and green teas of good earth
The pretentious-free atmosphere, simply add to their worth
They foster humanity, the arts, and treat their customers as their own
Their brews are heavenly home-made; this place a home
Missing from business today is what these folks are, true
Honest, loyal and kind; people that simply feel and do
Their fresh flavors are made with top care and love
Their chocolate mochas must have been sent from above
You see, I come often to this shop of friendship, family and good will
I embark daily to a real mom and pop joint, here at Grover’s Mill
I am embraced for who I and valued for my own unique voice
As I indulge daily with my cup of tantalizing teas or coffees of choice
This is a place, refreshing and dear.a true place of yester-year!
So come for some coffee, community, and company, here you can get your fill
Wherein you can converse and connect, such a small bill
What a beautiful addition to West Windsor, Grover’s Mill.
Michele Kallman
Kallman, a Plainsboro resdient, teaches English and drama at Manalapan High School and is presently in the lead role in Center Player’s “Twentieth Century.” She frequents Grover’s Mill Coffeehouse “for coffee, open mic. nights where I read my poetry, and many of their music fests.”
