What's Your Story

It is 11:15 pm and I just got home from Wal-Mart. Sweet. While I was there I happened to notice a little family -- they were young, maybe a little immature, but I don't know if that is the best word, maybe inexperienced is better. Anyway, they had a little girl with them, not much older than Zack & she was not a happy camper! They, meaning he, was getting a little frustrated with her. The first thought that ran through my head was, "duh, she's tired, give her a break, you're in Wal-Mart at 10:30." I quickly caught myself realizing I have been the frustrated parent in public & there is usually more to the story. I continue to hear the frustration on the aisle over & for some reason, stuff like this just makes me feel bad. Bad for the dad, the mom & the kiddo. Sooo, a minute later I see them making their way out minus the grocery cart & everything that was in it. It is obvious there has been a disagreement of some sort as the dad is 15 paces ahead of the mom who is now carrying a silent child with tear stained cheeks. Again, it makes me feel sad! And now I am really wondering what the story is. I assume from their appearance that they probably are not well-off & heck it is never a good sign if you are yelling at your 2 year old in Wal-Mart at 10:30 at night & abandoning all your groceries! I guess I'll never find out, but it makes me sad & reminds me to be grateful. Grateful that I have been raised in a manner that has prepared me for life's greatest experiences & while sometimes frustrating, I have all the tools at my disposal. It also reminds me that I need to be of service. So many times people have come to my aid at opportune times -- a quick smile, a nice note, a last minute babysitter -- and I can do better at helping others, regardless of their story.