Mi Cafecito

I take a sip.

The bittersweet taste of tinto

slides across my tongue, 

and I feel an embrace from within

Cafecito!

How much I missed you!

I forgot how your warmth,

your beauty,

seeps in the essence of your steam.

I forgot the brightness of my country’s sun, 

how it glistens off the brown hue from your beans.

Rich and full of love, 

like the soil that nursed your seeds.  

Cafecito, 

Do you remember my abuelita?

How her fingers traced your mug

as the panela slowly melted within.

How her hands caressed your sides carefully

as to not burn herself 

but rather, to find a place of warmth,

easing her mornings

the same way you have eased mine.

Cafecito,

You continue to hold my youth,

wrapped in sweetness,

seasoned with joy.

Your earthy taste,

a reminiscence of my roots. 

Cafecito, 

I’m sorry I forgot your memories

The calm of your peace.

But most important,

I’m sorry I forgot your seeds

-n.h.p