The Best Cup of Coffee Ever

June 2012.

I was in the Boundary Waters with my friend, Greg, and a couple of his college buddies, Chris and Kyle, for Greg’s bachelor party.

I remember waking up early and being the first one out of the tent. There was a bite in the air, but the sun coming up to reveal the reflections on the lake provided a sense of warmth.

I grabbed a camping chair and sat down by the water.

I don’t remember how long I was out there taking it all in, but the next thing I heard was the zipper of a tent opening. Chris came and joined me by the water. If memory serves, we sat there and talked for a bit.

At the time, Chris had extensive camping experience as he and Greg had spent 10 days together portaging around the Boundary Waters. Chris is a fascinating guy.

At some point, “Hey, Reed, you want a cup of coffee?”

Did I ever!

For the next 30 minutes, Chris guided me in my first cup of coffee while camping.

He showed me how to get the fire going so we could heat the water.

He had me fill up a bladder of water and then hand pump a filter so we could actually drink it.

We got the water over the fire, and then put together his coffee making equipment.

For all I know, the grounds we were using could have been Folgers.

But when the heated water was poured over the grinds, the coffee maker did its thing, and we pour two cups of coffee and had our first sip—after a cheers—while looking out at the sun rising over the lake, I swear I have never had a better cup of coffee.

The rewards in life take time.

Things that are meaningful take time.

Achieving a goal takes time.

Enjoy the process.

Because when you do, what’s on the other side will be the best ever.

Onward.