The coffee packet rustles and the sand-like granules fall, quickly followed by the sound of hot water splashing into my cup. The air is rapidly filled with the unmistakable smell of instant coffee. Yes, I’ve succumbed to the temptations of convenience.

Standing at what was supposed to be a bar-counter many years ago, I look at the world outside through that narrow gap in the grilles of the back window. For so many years, and through the darkest of times, this window has represented a sense of hope - a hope that a world of sunshine, peace and laughter exists. A world waiting for me, a world that I will be part of one day.

For a moment, the heated arguments, raised voices and the clanging of pots and pans all around me fade into silence. For that very moment, all that exists in this world are the window, the coffee cup, and me. I take in a large breath of air, as if I could simply breathe in the moment and store it forever, deep in the recesses of my lungs. A warm feeling runs down my spine and my usually expressionless face breaks into a smile.

Some people find their religious experiences in the prayer hall of a mosque, or the sanctuary of a church, or perhaps amongst the incense-burners and statues of a temple. Me? I think I’ve found mine in a window, a cup of coffee, and a sense of hope that the future is worth living for.