Dearest Coffee,

Through the late nights, studying Nicomachean ethics and wanting to drift off to bed and let my grade diminish to the point of no return, you never fail to be there for me -- motivating me and pushing me to be my smartest self.

When I'm happy, you make me happier, and when I'm sad, you lift my spirits (as any good significant other would).

I remember my first encounter with you was met with doubt. I wanted to feel invited by you, overwhelmed with love at first taste but you only gave me bitterness. Eventually with some cream and sugar (and caramel flavoring) you came around and so did I. I was hooked.

I wake up every morning looking forward to you. As my alarm rings and I begin to question if I really need a college degree, I think about the beautiful box in the cabinet above my sink. It reads, "Peets Dark French Roast Coffee K-Cup Pods" and you're sitting in there, waiting for me. Your presence brings me to life and I have the strength to saunter from my bed to you.

Regardless of the bags under my eyes or how late I get home, you don't judge me. My mom tries to tell me, "don't go out if you have to wake up early the next day." I would never get that pessimism from you. No, from you, I get support. You let me be fun and studious. With you, I never have to choose and I will forever be grateful.

Your poignant smell fuels my day (and my nights when I have a paper due) and from the minute you touch my lips I know I'm ready for whatever life throws at me. I am invincible with you in my hand and your caffeine in my veins.

Yes, some may say I'm addicted and sure, I get a headache on the rare days that you're away from me but they just don't understand how much better my life is because of you. The nay-sayers claim that I don't need you but they're wrong. I do need you because without you life would just be one big string of 15 hour sleeps and unfinished assignments.

You make me my best self and I love you, coffee. You can be intense but that's what makes you you and I wouldn't change you for the world.

Thank you for everything you do (which is a lot),

Your humble admirer