I have been a patron of your coffee stop for the past five months, and wait patiently in your line. Every day, I politely consume the same mediocre beverage from you, the Blind Barista. I have noticed one thing during my regular, brief encounters with you: YOU DO NOT EVEN KNOW ME! Not the slightest twinge of acknowledgment. Not the slightest hint of recognition. Nothing! To the woman in front of me: "Extra foam as usual?" To the gentleman behind me as he hands you his clean coffee mug: "Your regular, sir?"

But to me? You peer vacantly into my face. "Can I start something for you?" you ask blankly. Do you really not know me?! It's never "Would you like to start a punch card?" Never "Let me guess... double-tall, light-whip mocha?"

I have tried other coffee stops, but yours is by far the most convenient. I have even made my own coffee drinks at home to avoid your empty gaze. I have all but given up. What would it take for a little friendly banter, a quick smile, or even a simple nod?

--Anonymous