I’ve used the term “coffee culture” before to explain the relational aspect behind Albanian culture. Yesterday, I really began to understand the literally meaning of this term. In this culture, it is customary to ask someone out for coffee if you would like to get to know them better, or if you are in a group setting, to form a deeper friendship. Apparently, in my case, this came in the form of a job offer….
Since I am a recovering coffee addict, a coffee shop is obviously my weakness. So, when I found out there were dozens of coffee shops within a 10-block radius of the campus we were working on, I was ecstatic. I quickly decided to become a regular at two of the neighboring shops, one called Mojo and the other, I just call “The Cave.” (I’m not really sure what it is called though) Since we have arrived (about 10 days ago) I have visited one of these coffee shops at least once a day. (Mojo is usually a two-timer because they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Little did I know my frequent visits would turn into something more.
There are four guys who work in the shop everyday. Mire and Vinny work in the mornings and Tony and Angie work at night. I’ve tried to make conversation with them in passing but when you only know Faliminderit (thank-you) C’kemi (hello) Mire Mengjes (good morning) Po and Yo (yes and no) it’s a little difficult to get to know someone.
Last night, Lauren and I went in to get some dinner and cappuccinos at Mojo like we usually do. After a long conversation, she decided to ask the waiter what his name was. That’s how we met Angie. We started talking a little more and as one thing led to another, I found Angie asking me if I wanted to come behind the bar to make some drinks! At first I thought he was kidding because there were still people in the restaurant and there were two workers there. But when he started walking towards the bar and motioning for me to come, I realized he was being dead serious!
Let me rewind for a second…Lauren and I went to Mojo as soon as it was opening to get some cappuccinos for breakfast. Mire was putting some tables and chairs outside. So, Lauren and I decided to help and he jokingly said we would always be welcome to a job there….
So, after I made a cappuccino (with Angie’s help) I told him that I already got one job offer to work there so if my cappuccino tasted good enough, I should get hired. We let Lauren determine my fate at Mojo. As the taste tester, she gave her verdict….I make some pretty decent cappuccinos! Once Lauren okay-ed the drinks, Angie said I was hired and could work anytime…looks like I’m staying in Albania 😉
