Julius, one our regular customers, made an observation that he has never encountered as much philosophical discussion in a place before. I was disturbed by the comment because I had a negative view of "philosophical" things before. So I asked Tom what "philosophy" meant, and he proceeded to explain that "philos" meant affinity and that "sophos" meant wisdom. Therefore, philosophy means an attraction to wisdom. So I asked myself Why do I try to obtain understanding of things in life, including people, this world and this universe? My insight was that gaining an understanding of things helps to cleanse the garbage in my mind and heart, and it helps my heart and soul to breathe.
John of the True Love Cafe

Regardless of one's religion or cultural background, we at the cafe wish goodness and happiness to all.
I believe that life is harsh enough; I truly wish happiness in your lives each and every year.
John Lee of the True Love Cafe

We have been taught that "family" is a genetic relationship. However, I've come to realize that family are people that we care about. And now my understanding is that potentially many individuals in this world can be part of my "family". We are not separated by culture, language or geographical origin. Our hearts connect to those of others of kindred spirit. This sounds like a cliche but it is really true.
John of the True Love Cafe

First insight: out of the different kinds of fields I've studied, only music and poety express the soul. These artists are able to confirm that the spirit exists.
Secondly, I've found love is a non-adversarial interaction, where one side does not have to win or lose. There is harmony, like in music; it's a sharing. I've come to understand that life is about passion. Things like love show me that I exist. During normal daily activities it's easy forget this. Love music reminds us of the deeper things. I've come to realize that everyone can be a winner, and that losing is not necessary. Not all things need to be adversarial.
John of the True Love Cafe

Since I was a teenager, I have endeavored to be strong. Strong in body and in spirit. However, I believe that I mistook independence for strength. For example there is a popular conception that you shouldn't have to change yourself for your lover. I have come to realize that I am willing to change, and that this does not diminish my strength. And I have come to realize that independence is a concept inconsistent with living and loving. Another kind of strength is being able to stand up for what I believe in, even when it goes against my social group: strength to believe what's in my heart. With age my physical strength is diminishing; I ponder whether the strength of my heart and soul and spirit is diminishing too. "No man is an island."
John of the True Love Cafe