Thank You For Smoking

I love Starbucks for many reasons, but a distinctive one which differentiates this specialty coffee brand from others is its non-smoking policy. Well, now there are many other coffee shops with non-smoking policy, but arguably Starbucks is the first to start such a rule. One, esp. non-smoker, is able to enjoy gourmet coffee and its aroma. Puff won't annoy such coffee break at all.

"Universal Mind Control"?! (it's COMMON!!)

Such a policy, disappointingly though, doesn't cover terrace area outside a store. Worse, the stores even offer an ash tray for customers who request one. Japan has a huge smoker population. As summer's getting closer and weather nicer, it's irresistible to go outside and enjoy coffee. But, highly likely to have someone sitting nearby smoking.

As I enjoying book-reading and drinking coffee this morning, a gentleman had a seat right next to me. He lit a tobacco and started to smoke. The puff flew to me, disturbing my favorite time. But, guess what printed on the back of his T-shirt. It was:

"Love Each Other, Respect Each Other"

This must be a bad joke, or a cry from marginalized smokers more than ever. Whatever the message really means, thanks for reminding me of mutual respect. Too bad that he couldn't see his own back.