I Understand

I was standing in line at a fabric store. My plan was to run in and out quick as can be. Well, the store had other plans. Who knew in the middle of the week, on a sunny afternoon, the fabric store was the place to be. I had to grab a number, and wait to be called, to get my fabric cut. I was two numbers away. Well that's not too bad right? I thought about backing out. It was nap time and I just wanted to get my kids home and to bed. The time was drawing near when a nap would be obsolete and we'd have to just skip it and wait till bedtime.

Then I was only one number away. "OK," I thought, "I can wait. I'm sure I'll get called any minute."

Well I waited. . .and waited. . .and waited. . .and. . .You get the idea. I started muttering things under my breath like, "I should have never come in here", "This is ridiculous", "One number away and they can't call it". My husband, who had time to go and fetch the car, came back in and I told him all about my frustrations. Then finally they called a number! Well, it was the number after mine. Then something wonderful happened. The lady standing next to me says, "Here that's my number. Trade me so you can go."

Well she ended up being able to keep her number because mine was the one before, but still what a lovely gesture.

It was later that I thought, "Now that is truly how one should help a stressed mom in a stressed situation."

Sometimes people confront mothers in an attempt to protect the children, but this usually just frustrates moms more and doesn't really improve the situation. I think instead of accusing or lecturing one should simply say, "Do you need a hand?"

Now I am not one that can do this. I am one that usually notices needs around me, but my shyness keeps me from acting. Luckily I have a wonderful husband whom will offer the help for me when I mention the need-- though I am getting better at offering myself.

I'm usually one that doesn't respond well to lectures or counseling. I don't like to feel as though I'm the only one who has experienced the emotions and frustrations of motherhood. I truly respond best to people when they simply say, "I understand."

And even though the words never came out of my Good Samaritans mouth. I feel her actions said it for her.