Stacy asked my a question today that hasn’t left my mind since she asked it:

“How has learning about how coffee is made going to change the way you interact with coffee?”

At first, I couldn’t come up a solid answer. Sure, I knew so many new things now. Coffee is not the simple process But how would that change the way I ordered at Starbucks. Not like if I go up to the barista I can say “Is this authentic Costa Rican Coffee? How is the bean dried? How much did you pay for the sack of coffee beans?”

It would be easier to simply stick with my original answer. Nothing has changed, I can take value with the many lessons learned.

Costa Rican’s value the quality of all aspects of the coffee growing process. They spend hours separating the good berries from the bad, hybridizing planets in order to ensure strong and high yield plants. They value the quality of the lives of their worker, providing housing, day care, and high pay for the workers. They also value the quality of their land. Incorporating the waste from coffee plant into fertilizers, incorporating natural fruit trees to help reduce the use of pesticides, and using hydro force to power the plants.

However, what struck me most about the visit is the passion that the general manager spoke about the business. He said, “In Costa Rica, there is no competition, we all help each other.” This differs from the often very cut throat and competitive mindset of American businesses. Instead of lifting each other up, Americans often try to find ways to best their opponents.

I think this idea relates to the tiko mindset as a whole. As an American, it’s hard not to come into a country defensive (because most foreign countries hate Americans). However, tikos have offered nothing but open arms. They exude patience and a consistent bright additude. It’s almost infectious.

So no, I may never be able guarantee I will be drinking Costa Rican coffee in my mocha from starbucks. However, I can carry the values of the coffee plantation with me. Asking for nothing but the highest qualities of my products and spreading the kindness of helping others to my career.