Walking the walk... #pif

Oftentimes, let folks impassionedly tell it, they're doing their parts to create unconditional loving, change in the universe. And, in all fairness, I believe most really do think this of themselves as what we believe is very real to us--blah, blah, blah...

Well, on the final leg of my "2016 blunder throughout the US tour"  the universe brilliantly arranged me to cross paths with a woman. 

Ms. Stephanie Vasquez of Fair Trade Cafe

When I think of, "I am woman, hear me roar"--I think of her. Yet, she does it elegantly, informed, while standing firm in her beliefs and ethics; garnish that with fairness and there you have her. 

A community portal. An informed teaching place. That's what she's created--a safe haven for every walk of life to grab an amazing cup of fair-trade coffee, in eco-friendly and sustainable packaging & locally - harvested/produced, well-crafted eats. The amount of business that transpires throughout the day is incredible; meet and greets, warm cozy place, writing clubs, aspiring actors and politicians. It's a high-traffic hub that allows you the opportunity to build within community.

Stephanie has planted firmly (10 years strong) within the community and believe in fair living wages, well treatment of her employees as well her customer. 

Stephanie being interviewed by Chanel 10 for her support for AZ families. #fairlivingwage

On the next to final day of my time in Phoenix, I stopped into her space as I had a business meeting with her...I was tired and my soul was weary as I was closing out so many phases of my life all at once,  which is generally energy-depleting; the business meeting went fairly well, but what most impressed me was when I got to the part of my story that I'd been hungry. She stopped mid-stream our conversation and asked me to repeat what I'd just said. Without thinking, flinching nor hesitating, she had her staff prepare me something to eat (after being thoughtful enough to ask me if I eat meat). And, it wasn't just something, it was a hearty meal that held me over for the bulk of the day. In closing, she told me,  "if you're hungry while in Phoenix, it's because you want to be as my doors are open from 6am - 10pm."

She and I may never do business together, but what I did gain was a friend and respect for a woman/human being. I respect what she's built from the ground up, I respect that she's self-made, driven and loving at the same time, compassionate and tough, firm but open. 

Fair Trade Cafe, Phoenix, AZ

Ms. Stephanie Vasquez, I salute you and thank you for your kindness and works. Thank you for not just talking the talk, but walking the walk and showing folks how it's done. Your good deeds has been paid forward. 

Namaste

P.s., 
Be sure to stop by
Fair Trade Cafe 
1020 N 1st Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003
www.azfairtrade.com

#KindnessMovement