Coffee Conspiracy: Cup 9

As we creep ever closer to a new year, I look into the bottom of my cup of coffee and see a familiar face. This face causes me to recall the excitement I use to feel when I saw a new anime, played a new video game, or read a new comic book.  To many, this may seem ridiculous, and looking back as an adult, perhaps it was. However, when I look back on it, I am filled with gratitude. You see, what I felt is what I define passion to be. I assume there are some that may have no passions. And I assume there are those that are fortuitous to have passions, but are unable to pursue them for one reason or another. I think about this, and I realize what a rare opportunity I have, and it fills me with gratitude. 

There are days when it doesn't seem so easy, however. On those days, I do my best to recall the emotion I felt as a younger child. This keep me grounded, focused, and humbled. Humbled not of my talent, but simply as an individual. I was given a gift, and many have sacrificed and aided me to be where I am. Humbled knowing that others haven't been so lucky, and for some that I have known personally, no longer have that chance.

So with this coming new year, I am reminded of my friends and family, both present and gone, of the artists who have influenced me and my pursuit of passion, and of those that have pushed me to pursue that passion. And to all those people, I am thankful, every day of my life. Here is to the upcoming year of 2019. Even if you're all not next to me, you're with me every day.

So whose face was it that spurred these thoughts? Afro Samurai of course.
Thanks to Takashi Okazaki for your dedication to the craft.

​Have a great New Year everyone.