
cupcake chess
“Can I get a cupcake?”
“Sure,” I say handing one to the boy.
“Thanks.”
“You’re welcome.”
(minutes later)
“Tim, can I have another cupcake?”
“I’m sorry. I can only give you one, but I have other snacks. Want something else?”
“Nooo,” the boy growls. “I want another cupcake...pleeasse, Tim?”
(Suddenly I realize, I’m in the middle of a game of cupcake chess.)
“One per person,” I move.
“Tim, if I don’t have one tomorrow, can I have a second cupcake today?” He asks with an adorable smile.
“No,” cupcake to D6.
“Tim, save that big one right there for me tomorrow.” He points with his finger.
“What’s your name?” I ask.
“Jon,” he says. “Can I get a gum ball?”
“Yes,” I reply, handing him a quarter for our gum ball machine.”
Whew. I made it through that round. It was busy yesterday. Lots of students, lots of needs. We served 62 guests as best we could for the glory of God. We listened to problems, connected folks to resources, prayed with them for their needs, laughed with teens, and did a truck load of dishes.
All in all, it was one of those, “but you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry” kinda days. (2 Timothy 4:5)
BTW-the cupcake chess game isn’t over. I saved the big one for Jon. It’s my checkmate move and I think he’ll be floored.
Tim Van Arsdale
Executive Director
CUPS / CAFE
Cell: 330.304.5449 / Cafe: 330.241.5990
tim@cupscafe.org / www.cupscafe.org / facebook.com/cupscafe
Cafe: 126 N. Court St. Unit C Medina, Ohio 44256
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 83 Medina, Ohio 44258
Hours of Operation
Mon - Fri 10:00am to 4:30pm; Sat 3:00pm to 6:00pm; Sun CLOSED