For the past few months, I’ve found myself getting up early during busy work periods, heading to the local Tim Hortons before hitting the gym. It’s the only coffee shop open 24 hours, making it a haven for someone like me who often rises at four in the morning.

Tim Hortons is your typical fast-food joint, with its black and red branding and standard tables. But at that early hour, it becomes more than just a place to grab a coffee; it becomes a space where productivity thrives. Over several weeks, I found myself immensely productive, the coffee shop serving its purpose well.

Yet, it evolved into something more meaningful.

It all started with the staff. When you visit a place frequently, the staff start to recognize you and anticipate your order. It’s a peculiar mix of comfort and discomfort. On one hand, you want to remain anonymous and just get your work done. On the other, it feels good to be acknowledged.

The staff at this Tim Hortons were always friendly and competent. One young woman, often tired but always cheerful, stood out. Her efficiency and multitasking abilities were impressive. It was clear that she took pride in her work, and in those small actions, she made the world a bit better.

Then there were the regulars.

The first person I spoke to was an older gentleman, retired and kind. Our initial interaction wasn’t out of a desire to chat but because his phone was too loud. After I politely asked him to lower the volume, we exchanged smiles and greetings every morning after that. He even owns a restaurant nearby, which I plan to visit with my family soon.

Gradually, I realized I had become part of a small community—the 5 AM community. This group of early risers, ranging from retirees to young professionals just starting their careers, shared a mutual respect and understanding. We all had our reasons for being there so early, and this shared experience created a bond.

There are about 9 to 12 of us in this informal group. While I don’t know everyone well, the sense of community is undeniable. In any community, you don’t connect deeply with everyone, but there’s always a core group and others on the periphery. What unites us is a respect for each other’s dedication and goals, no matter our stage in life.

This mutual respect and empathy manifest in small ways—smiles, nods, and brief conversations. It’s a pleasant way to start the day, adding a touch of human connection to the routine.

The more time I spend there, the more curious I become about the regulars’ histories, aspirations, and backgrounds. It feels like the beginning of a novel, with a cast of characters all up at dawn, doing what they need to do. I’m waiting for some catalyst to kick off the story.

Life is like that sometimes, full of rich characters but lacking enough time to develop a full narrative. There are countless potential stories around us that never get written because we’re too busy or too focused on our stresses to notice.

It reminds me of the saying, “It’s better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.” Spending time in a place like this, even if just for a few weeks, allows you to connect meaningfully with your community.

Try it sometime. Wake up early, visit your local 24-hour coffee shop, and bring something meaningful to work on. Don’t expect anything; just see what happens. You might find direction in the 5 AM community coffee shop, where characters slowly unfold and a story begins to take shape.

Even if nothing grand happens, you’ll have met some real people and connected authentically with your community. Those characters and their stories will likely stay with you, providing a sense of connection and support during tough times.

Amid all the bad news, remember that there’s a lot of good right under your nose if you take the time to look for it.

JM