My Java Journal

Managing Circumstances: Striving For Dignity And Grace

“The ideal man bears the accidents of life with dignity and grace, making the best of circumstances.” – Aristotle

I came home. It was the right decision. I hope I achieved dignity and grace. Certainly I am striving to make the best of circumstances.

So often I have read that the journey, not the destination, is the more important aspect of travel. I believe this.

I last wrote of my journey from St. Louis, Missouri. I managed one more day in St. Louis before turning back. It is an interesting city. It has that old American city feel with at least one very endearing ‘heritage’ district. I spent a large part of my last day in one district in particular; Cherokee-Lemp Historic District. It offered several coffeehouses, but I only went to one before a little walk and then I moved to another area of town.

The Mud House was fantastic. With a full kitchen, I had an American staple I realized I have missed very much from my time in the US – Biscuits and Gravy. My usual americano was delicious and the place had a very comfortable and familiar feel. Sitting there for about an hour I noted a feature I love in these coffeehouses, and that I plan to add to mine; lots of books and a collection of old typewriters. This classic, the typewriter, really resonates with. Much like I love analogue, automatic watches and carbureted, austere motorcycles, I just love surrounding myself with anachronistic settings and timeless pieces.

I then moved to the Kitchen House in another district, were the claim to fame was chickens in the ‘yard.’ They were there, but it wasn’t like you could really get in there. Regardless, a nice spot in another cool part of town. Smoothie was good and it was nice and very quiet.

A final location was Park Ave Coffee near Lafayette park. A little less eclectic but the staff were engaging and I felt comfortable there. I had planned to stay longer and explore more but I was on my motorcycle, which was stripped down and I had no rain protection for my laptop. Upon hearing of pending rain, I packed up and got back to my home station.

That was it for St. Louis. Decision made, I headed for home.