Tonight we said goodbye to a place that we hold dear, Bare Bulb Coffee. I wasn’t sure if I could or would be able to be there as the lights were turned out for the last time, but as the time grew closer, I knew I couldn’t be anywhere else.
A few of us who have shared many cups of coffee and moments together in that space gathered tonight to play games, sit and talk, have coffee. We ordered some pizza and hung out–making precious memories that I hope all of these people I love will carry with them for a long time. There were friends there whom I was with last night, and there were friends whom I haven’t seen in far too long.
It was an unofficial Bare Bulb reunion of sorts, and it was good.
What I will remember most are the laughter and the stories. And how folks whom we hadn’t known as long were brought around the table with open arms just like those we’ve known for years. I’ll remember that strangers were invited to share in the pizza and the celebration and the light. One more time.
I’ll remember the smiles on the faces and the gentle strumming of a guitar. The children on the stage, playing games and eating pizza and coloring signs as tributes to this place where they grew up. I’ll remember ordering my large decaf, no room for anything one. last. time. The smell of the coffee. The sound of the beans grinding. The glittery tiles on the coffee table, the cool feel of the tile on the big table where the group gathered for one more round of Apples to Apples.
The thing I’ve noticed is that when we are saying goodbye to someone we love, there is one thing that is always a part of those moments.
The stories.
And tonight was no different. I heard all the stories being shared, and it made my heart glad.
Tonight I’m most thankful for the ones who have gathered there over the years and those who gathered tonight. Thank you for filling this sacred space with laughter and all the stories that we can hold close and use to fuel the flame given to us by this special place. That we sent her out with laughter and fun and friends who have become family is a gift I will always be grateful for.
May we honor what Bare Bulb Coffee was and what she taught us by letting our light shine–even in the darkest of times. Together.
Love–and light–to all.
I Might Need A Nap 
Oh Tara, I’m so sad that such a wonderful, gentle community-gathering space is gone! I’ve loved the stories you’ve told, based on Bare Bulb. Hugs to you and all the others who made that place sacred.