I was spotted a few weeks ago as a waitress with a contagious smile who helped another mom remember all she had to be happy about. I received an overwhelming outpour of compliments, kindness, recognition, and even a free family photoshoot from another stranger! That mom has no idea how that acknowledgement, that short story published changed my perspective and value of myself. Little did she know that I was struggling with what I should be doing with my life. My bestie always validated my choice to stay at home with kids and work part time at BP, even when I was occasionally embarrassed. During our last chat, I promised her that I would make a difference in the world and to be more than just a waitress. Being spotted made me realize that one person can make a difference. I did it for someone. Now I need to share a story of a person who made a difference to me.
It was a snowy cold Wednesday with 2 sick kids. My poor munchkin continued to throw up most of the way to central mall in the shopping bag I handed her while her baby brother was cranky as he was forced to skip nap & get trapped in a seat for as long as this took. After 2.5 hrs waiting in clinic to see the Dr. we got our diagnosis, and were headed towards METRO within the plaza to grab a couple of essentials to get through the night.
I was pushing my busy & loud baby boy in the stroller with my left hand while pulling a metro cart behind me with my sick & weak 4 year old daughter laying in the cart with my right. I had limited time and a short list to complete. Manoeuvering the aisles was so much harder than I anticipated. I would wheel the kids to area out of the way but in view & talking to them while I grabbed couple items at a time, rush back to cart and wheel to the next spot. I was doing the best I could knowing I looked a little crazy & trying to keep my patience and stay calm. This was just a moment in time. People couldn't help but notice us & our struggle, they'd smile & nod as we passed by them.
I made it to the produce section, half the list complete, and then I SPOTTED her. We had made eye contact 2 aisles back, I felt her sympathy & compassion. She smiled and gently said hello to me & engaged my kids in a friendly tone. She continued I remember those days, I have been there, my kids are a bit older now. May I help you and your family? Her own cart was gone, her hands and her time were offered to assist me. I didn't know what to say I did need help clearly but I it is often hard to accept and receive help. My instinct was to say oh thanks we're all good here I got this. Karen saw right through me; she told me she had been helped in the past and wanted to pay it forward.
With and extra set of hands, & eyes, we effortlessly strolled to the baby aisle. Karen interacted with my kids while I grabbed the fever medicine, formula, baby food pouches , Gatorade etc. I paused while putting those items in the cart to tell her how much I appreciated her kindness.
At the checkout she stayed with us as we collectively packed bags and got kids ready for the car. I hugged her tight again and said thank you. She asked where my car was parked, I explained. She proceeded to pushed the cart next to me & the stroller towards that door. When we got there she stayed with the kids so I could clean off my van & pull it right up to the door. One at a time I picked up the kids, them into their respective car seats, gave my munchkin her Tylenol and Gatorade, while Karen put the groceries and my stroller in the trunk.
It was simple but selfless. By the time I was ready to head for home, it all hit me. My heart swelled, I took a deep breathe, and truly SPOTTED my angel on earth and said, THANK YOU. I wrapped my arms around her and hugged her so tight whiserping thank you through my tears of appreciation. I have no idea how I would have done it without her. She said it felt just as good to help someone as to be helped. I promised her that I would pay it forward as she did. She hugged me tight right back.
Last year with the passing of my best friend I learned some invaluable lessons about giving, receiving love and gratitude. I knew this was a magic moment, I knew Allie was with us, as she has been everyday somehow and in some way. We ALL have something to offer; ourselves, our time. By giving we receive, I am blessed to have been given happiness and received compassion.
Karen Thank you, you made a difference to me! I will NEVER forget this kindness.