Last week, I witnessed a woman go through the grocery store with her daughter having a raging tantrum the entire time.
I was working there at the time, and, like most everyone else, noticed the commotion. She didn't come through my line, but I could see the "I'm sorry, I can't control this situation so we're going to have to let her scream it out" look on her face.
Her transaction took WAY longer than seemed necessary, and she looked like she wanted to scream, just like her little girl, but totally held it together.
I didn't have anyone in my line, and as she started to walk out the door, I grabbed a bouquet of flowers and hustled after her and met her at her car. I handed her the flowers, told her she was a great mom, and helped get the groceries into the car while she managed her daughter.
She looked relieved and thanked me and apologized for her daughter's behavior. She was my hero that day. I'd had a minor meltdown of my own while driving from one job to the other, and knew what her little girl felt, I just couldn't wail about it and get away with it anymore. At least in public.
Patience like that mom's is more than a virtue. It is admirable and should be commended. She is a great mom. I'm sure her daughter is also a great kid. I hope they both see that in each other as I saw it in them.
No comments:
Post a Comment