In 1961, a singer named Ben E. King released a song. He drew his inspiration from gospel music he’d heard as a boy in church — music carrying a line rooted in scripture: even if the ground shakes, even if the mountains crumble into the sea, there is someone who will stand by you.

For people living through uncertain times, the song came to mean something more. Rather than shouting to be heard, it simply, quietly sang, “stand by me” — and in doing so, it found its way into the hearts of many. It has been sung across generations ever since, lent its name to a film, and become, the world over, a byword for friendship and bonds that hold.

Being there for someone, or wishing someone were there for you — that is never a weakness. We may look like we can stand on our own, but more often than not, we’re held up by someone else’s presence. You don’t need to cry out for help. Sometimes, all you need is someone quietly beside you. That is the quiet wish we put into this cup.

By your side. In place of someone, this coffee.