Stories of Kindness from Around the World

Today, I stopped at the store to return a couple of things.   Sure enough, I ended up in line behind an older woman who was questioning all the pricing on her purchases and moving rather slowly.

I made up my mind to think compassionately; to be patient and wait with a smile on my face. The older woman glanced at me and acknowledged that it must be heavy to keep holding all my items while waiting for her to finish checking out.

I told her I was young enough to hold them all, and that I needed the exercise anyway. She commented that she was too old for exercise, but needed it.

Then she turned to me and said, "I just lost my husband on the 20th."

He had died of cancer, just two weeks after the doctor had told him he had about six weeks to live. She explained that they were both diagnosed with cancer in the same week. She had breast cancer, but was in remission. 

I asked her how she was holding up in the holiday season.
"Pretty well," she replied.

She has family in the area, as well as family visiting from out of town. Then I noticed that most of the things she was buying were clothing items for her great-grandchildren. :)

I told her I was sorry to hear of her loss, and that I was glad she had family around to be with her. Then I assured her that her husband's spirit lives on with her, and that even her great-grandchildren will always remember him. They will especially think of him during the holidays, when the whole family gets together.
She agreed.

As she finished up with her purchases, I wished her well: "Bless you, and I hope your holiday season goes well!"

After she left, I reflected on our conversation and smiled. I felt very grateful towards this great-grandmother for entering my day. She reminded me that we can always find a reason to count our blessings-- and when we forget or neglect to, someone may just come along to remind us!