OPINION
Can one person make a difference in this world?
You betcha! Let me share with you testimonials of four people who have been the recipient of that person's efforts.
I'm talking about Jimerson Adkins, owner of Pilot Point Coffee House and Cantina.
His goal was for PPCH to be a gathering place for the community, a place to make new friends while enjoying events that he hoped to provide.
Don, who worked with me at Meals on Wheels, attended the PPCH at my invitation, after informing him he would love Pilot Point.
He has since become an important patron and performer, emceeing many Sessions on Tuesdays, Don on bass with Walton Monroe Band, playing solo for art gallery openings and for a variety of events.
Don commented that PPCH is 'Ground Zero' for inviting friendships to happen.
Kiitty, after her first visit, has hidden a cot someplace on the premises.
When not at the community center, you will find Kitty at PPCH, meeting up with friends of all ages, enjoying events, welcoming everyone, trying to remember where she hid her cot.
You will find Kitty as a daily reminder that it's the place to be.
Buddy brings his friend, Nate, with him from Denton on Tuesday nights for Sessions.
His first visit was Saturday night karaoke.
Buddy and Nate met at the VFW in Denton six to eight months ago, found out that they both shared a deepseated faith and had an interest in music.
Nate invited buddy to his church.
Buddy invited Nate to come to PPCH Sessions.
Buddy explained that coming to Sessions is the highlight of his week.
He didn't think a place existed like the coffee house.
'It's unique and special because, not only can you find friendship, but you have a family who encourages one another and your dark days don't remain so,' he said. Keep in mind that buddy picks up Nate and brings him to PPCH.
Nate had a near fatal motorcycle accident 10 years ago.
He lost a leg and his eyesight.
His first experience at PPCH made him feel included, that he was no different than all the other musicians there.
'The Coffee House has given me the confidence to become a better player and I practice more,' he said.
So when you go to the PPCH, don't think of it as just a place to get a beverage.
Think of it as a Gathering Place—Ground Zero.
A place for all of us. A home away from home. A place to hide your cot. A place of sharing, laughter, camaraderie, music and entertainment.
It started with one man's vision and look at all the people who've been influenced.
This column only has room to give you four examples. There are many, many more, and I'm one of them.
If you don't live in Pilot Point, I hope you have a place like the Pilot Point Coffee House and Cantina in your town.
If not, come and visit us. If so, let me know. I'll pay it a visit. I also hope you have a person like Jimerson Adkins.
Cindy “Mama C” Faris is a Pilot Point resident, and she is offering life advice for any who want it. She can be reached at [email protected].
