by Gretel

Created on: September 24, 2009

So I'm addicted to coffee. Don't judge me; it's how I deal with my life. Don't believe me? I teach 7th graders and if I don't stay caffeinated, some of these prepubescent mutants could break lose and take over the world. I'm dedicated to not letting that happen, not on my watch. I must remain alert! My energy level must also match that of a rabid squirrel in order to keep up with my students.

My addiction has reached the point of me actually setting aside money in my budget entirely dedicated to coffee. Seriously, it's there: rent, gas, utilities, student loans, food, coffee...

Just about every day, I get a mocha (my favorite) from McDonald's, Starbucks, Joe Muggs, or any of the other local coffee shops delightfully spread out on just about every corner. I have come to center my life around my addiction to avoid the horrid headaches I get if ever I (heaven forbid) should go without.

Everyone who knows me knows at least one thing about me: I love coffee. Even when I interviewed for my teaching position, I was asked what motivated me. Without pause or even the slightest reluctance, I spouted, "caffeine!" It's a good thing my boss had a sense of humor, but then again, I wasn't really trying to be funny. It was an honest answer straight from my gut.

For Christmas and teacher appreciation week in the spring, if students know what to give me. Starbucks gift cards: the best present ever! Ah, those keep me caffeinated for a nice, long time.

But what is so appealing about coffee besides the effect of the caffeine? If I could have an IV hooked up to my arm with which to constantly supply me with my drug, I think I'd still drink coffee. I don't know why. Maybe it's the warmth, maybe it's the inciting aroma, or maybe it's a confirmation of adulthood as it satisfies a more sophisticated pallet.

All I know is that a world without coffee is a world I don't want to live in. I want it, I need it, and I love it. With it, I go through life and without it, I go through withdrawals.

I don't just think that I need coffee, I really do need it. I tried to go a day without it and it wasn't pretty.

Even now, as I draw to the end of my current cup this morning, students are coming into my room. Guess what I need? That's right, more coffee.

Learn more about this author, Gretel.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.