I was a junior in high school when I fell in love with coffee. I know, to some of you, I’m a late bloomer. Keep in mind that some people don’t drink coffee until they're well in college, and others don’t drink coffee at all.

All my friends loved it. Of course, they added an insane amount of cream and sugar before consumption. I felt like I was missing out, so I forced myself to like this peculiar drink. Before I knew it, it was my crutch.

As I’m writing this, it’s 2 in the morning. If you glanced at my to-do list, you’d see an everlasting guide to the homework I have, the bills I need to pay, and another reminder than we’re halfway done with the semester and I haven’t bought a parking pass yet (oops).

Like I said, it’s 2. I miss my bed. I miss sleep. The only reason I’m attentive and actually being productive is the caffeine pulsating through my veins. It’s freezing in my house. The only reason I’m not cold is because of the mug warming my hands, and the liquid warming my belly.

Thank you, coffee.

Thank you for getting me through school, the amount of all-nighters you’ve pulled me through. You've given me energy to wake up when I've had 2 hours of sleep.

Thank you keeping me awake while I drive. Whether it's to school, or work, or a long road trip, the fact is that I’d undoubtedly fall asleep without your company.

Thank you for giving me a reason to go out with friends, to drink you and catch up with them. You’re the common thread to new and old friendships.

Yes, let’s grab coffee.

Have you tried the new coffee shop downtown?

Here, try mine.

We should get coffee sometime!

Thank you for being so incredibly delicious. I drink you because I enjoy you, not just because you help wake me up.

Thank you for bringing me joy when I wake up so painfully grumpy.

Thank you for keeping me warm during the cold months. I know they'd be completely miserable without you. There’s nothing better than curling up in a a blanket on a chilly morning, steaming mug of coffee in hand.

Thank you for giving me a hobby. I enjoy finding new coffee shops. I like to find new ways to drink you. I love shopping for a new mug for my collection, even though there’s absolutely no room in my cabinet.

Now, it’s time for sleep. I have an early morning ahead of me, if I’m lucky I’ll get four hours of rest. But I know my coffee will be there to save the day.