We often tell stories of strangers attempting to shame us or just say superior things to heal their insecurities. This is not one of those stories. This is a good story- gather round. As I was loading my two boys in the car from the grocery store, I strapped in the little one and a lady tapped me on the shoulder with her eyes wide. “I just caught your shopping cart… it was attempting to roll away with your first boy.” I expected the furrowed brow.- the judgement I was just going to have to blow off. Instead, her look softened and she smiled. “I’m a mom and a nanny. It’s the hardest job in the world. Can I give you a quick tip?” She had my attention. “Take the youngest one, put him in his seat unbuckled and shut the door. You can buckle him later. Then turn back quickly to the other one.” That’s all she said. And it was so simple. And as a mom of two little ones, I should have figured that out already- I felt a flush start creeping up my cheeks. But I told my insecurities to be quiet and accept this kind lady’s non-judgemental help. I smiled warmly. “Thank you. That actually is a great tip and I’m going to try that.” “You are doing a great job,” she said. And with that, we got in our cars to go about our day. Thank you dear lady for offering help to a very tired and scattered mother. For looking out for the safety of my little one. For helping me not repeat a mistake. For being sensitive and measured with your words. May I be humble enough to pass on the kindness and help in the future.
An American humorist, writer and author. When boiling down the chicken soup of life, she finds those golden, fried nuggets of truth & writes them long after the kids go to bed.
