COFFEE WITH KARIN

COFFEE WITH KARIN

When Karin Muller, filmmaker and author, was in the Peace Corps from 1987 to 1989, she dug wells and built schools in a village in the Philippines.

While she created positive impact and exerted tremendous influence on the localites for her benevolent task and gregarious nature, she was informed that New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, were suspicious about her tie ups and plans and may visit her to interrogate or even worse arrest. Karin was nervous and intimidated as the NPA was feared for their militant tactics and violent dealing with other groups.

One night, seventeen members of the NPA came to her hut to interrogate her.

Fortunately, earlier that day, villagers had warned her that this was going to happen, so she collected two precious commodities: sugar and coffee.

When the NPA arrived, she exclaimed, “Thank God you’re here. I’ve been waiting all day. Please have some coffee. Leave your guns at the door.” Her reaction baffled the leader of the group, but he took off his gun and sat down for a cup of coffee. Soon villagers heard fun and laughter from inside the tent and not only did the NPA have a good time with her, they also promised her support and assistance for her good work.

Later, Karin Muller would humorously say she avoided an interrogation or something worse because, according to her, “You can’t interrogate someone you’re having coffee with.”