I opened Church Alley Coffee Bar January 13, 2013. I had worked in the hospitality industry and non-profit project management for almost 15 years before coming home to the Gulf Coast to help with fishing communities impacted by the BP oil disaster. No matter where my non-profit work took me, I saw my future in a small mission driven service forward business waiting tables.
I deeply believe that businesses, regardless of size, should make the communities that support them better. I founded Church Alley on the belief that the hospitality industry provides a unique opportunity to create a more peaceful and connected New Orleans. That leadership begins with compassion for yourself and those around you. That grace is about digging deep into why we do our work and to strive for a larger positive impact. Church Alley Coffee Bar isn’t just about delicious coffee. It’s about making my tiny little piece of the world full of love.
I was sitting here in my home office listening Abiy Ahmed Ali, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, receive this year’s Nobel Peace Prize earlier this month, where I am now ending this beautiful chaotic enchanting year. Each year I am brought to tears. (I am often brought to tears.) But listening to each year’s recipients commitment to making their corner of the world as peaceful as possible regardless of circumstances was incredibly moving. |
I am always struck by the appearance of disconnect between these leaders and us as citizens. But the reality is we are no different than those who work tirelessly for peace. We each have a very specific place in our community to lead and to be a voice of love and peace. No matter our title. These ceremonies simply remind us of our own power in doing so. I can not deny that we are facing difficult times in our country and around the world as we watch corruption and hatred increasing its voice and power. But there is something beautiful to watch the Prime Minister of the country from where our very own humanity rose be recognized for its efforts towards finding peace. Ali stated during his lecture, “For me, nurturing peace is like planting and growing trees. Just like trees need water and good soil to grow, peace requires unwavering commitment, infinite patience, and good will to cultivate and harvest its dividends.” New Orleans provides us with special challenges which we must constantly overcome. But it is through our everyday exchanges do we show the world our particular path towards peace and it would be foolish to not name the coffeeshop as an important component. Maybe I take our role too seriously. Maybe all you want is your coffee and to move on about your day. But I want my corner of the world to make you feel loved and welcomed. I want to take this moment at the end of the year to say thank you. Thank you for showing up everyday and sharing a piece of your life with us. In 2012 I left my non-profit work because I deeply missed waiting tables. I love the interactions in restaurants. I love working hard behind the counter when the line is to the door with families, tourists, and regulars. We find great fulfillment in serving you everyday. |