Opening Up: Write. Revise. Write--Again. Revise.

This course has been challenging. There, I said it. I love a good challenge, however. I love seeing my passion for people surface, my boldness in asking questions, and my creativity as I brainstorm. Overall, I have grown in the process as a writer, student and friend--better time management skills and conversationalist.

As I revisit my meeting story on Open Doors Coffeehouse, I try to do so with a fresh mind and clear head. If I approach it and am too analytical, I get discouraged. That is why it is important to pace myself and work hard (and ahead) each time I visit my article.

For my meeting story, I decided to write about the coffeehouse in Johnson City, Open Doors. Sherry Marion, owner, and Jake Doriot, manager, were kind enough to let me sit in on one of their weekly meetings. Their meetings sometimes have an agenda and other times are just time to check in with each other. This was eye-opening to me to see such great communication behind the scenes.

I am a coffee enthusiast, so I have made my way to Open Doors many a time. However, through the meeting, I learned something that I would have never known if I did not attend the meeting and ask questions. All of their profits go to the community mentorship for students, Rise Up. This helps advocate for children in the area through one-on-one mentorship, leadership, providing job opportunities, and through prayer. Open Doors was opened as a way to make money to venture into Rise Up.

Through writing this meeting story, I wanted it to be more than just an overview of facts about future events and new updates with the espresso bar, but to show the heart of the people behind it. They want to create a space for students, pastors, small groups, writers and friends. They want to create beverages that are delightful and are enjoyed , so that they may pour it back into the community. They want to create and empower a team of leaders to be their best everyday. They have created a community centered around coffee, conversation and culture. Their doors are open to all--no one excluded. This is the heart of the story, and through revision and revisiting this piece, I hope that is communicated.