A Coffee Shop Imagination: Heaven Within
Amidst the bustling world, the most unique coffee shop I've ever imagined does not exist in reality but blossoms in my mind. This imagined haven is called Heaven Within and is nestled in the heart of Orem, Utah—home to a diverse populace that includes many Latter-day Saints who abstain from coffee, preferring energy drinks instead. Yet, this place is a sanctuary for like-minded individuals.
Atmosphere and Regulars
Unlike typical coffee shops, Heaven Within is a cozy retreat that thrives regardless of the weather. During the summer, each table is adorned with large umbrellas, providing essential shade. In winter, the interior is warmly inviting, with patrons arranging their chairs in a circle, ensuring no one feels left out. The spring brings a burst of life as birds build nests above the shop entrance, offering a delightful symphony of chirping sounds to liven the ambiance.
The regulars here are a mix of retirees and mature adults, with a few exceptions. Visitors like Sam, a retired police officer, and Legs, a kind-hearted redhead with a tragic past, are standout patrons. Sam, now running the evidence room for the local police station, enjoys his return to the coffee shop. Legs, divorced twice and widowed by kidney cancer, brings in bottles of Baileys Irish Cream to share with her fellow coffee enthusiasts, forming a unique bond with me.
Intensity of Conversations
The conversations at Heaven Within delve into deep and often controversial topics such as politics and religion. A few regulars share more conservative views, but respect is always maintained. Some even explore the notion of alternate universes and conspiracy theories, adding a layer of intrigue to the discussions.
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Once, during a lively discussion, I posed a provocative question to Legs: “Legs, did you know that the same sociality which exists among us here at Heaven Within will exist among us in the next life? However, it will come coupled with eternal glory, which is a glory we do not yet enjoy.”
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Legs responded with a hint of frustration: “I didn’t know that. I picture Earth as ‘eat, drink, and be merry’. In contrast, heaven seems pretty boring with all that harp music and having to wear wings all the time.”
Despite her skepticism, our exploration of the idea continues, suggesting that Heaven Within is not just a physical space but a place of possibility and imagination for all who visit.
Conclusion
Every imagination of Heaven Within is a testament to the power of the human mind to create environments where community, comfort, and the exchange of ideas thrive. Whether real or imagined, such spaces offer a respite from the demands of daily life and a place to dream about what might be.
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