I cried inside of Whole Foods the other day.
It wasn’t planned, though is any cry ever planned? But it was needed.
A little back story: Maverick has been cutting his molars on top of the other teeth coming out which in turn are making his gums bleed. We’ve also hit the stage early in toddlerhood where he’s learning right from wrong, also known as the terrible twos (cringe). And he wants to walk in every store, which is fine until he starts taking everything off the shelves, or walking too far ahead (since he’s too old to hold my hand). So that being said, most days are testing for me, but we’ve made some headway.
The other day a friend came into town, and I decided that we should meet up. I figured it would be a fun way to spend a Monday instead of our usual hang out at home all day routine. I packed all his favorite snacks, toys, and figured if worse came to worse, I have Moana and Mickey Mouse episodes on my phone. Well, by the second stop, he’d somehow morphed into a superhero whose sole talent is inhaling all of the food I packed him in record time. I was left with relying on MY superhero ability to quickly distract him from item to item while people stared and probably judged me for having an upset baby in the store.
Whole Foods was our last stop, and it was going to be quick. Maverick had napped in the car so I figured he wouldn’t mind sitting in the buggy for 10 minutes. Though we probably should’ve left as soon as we walked in because he started crying so hard and loud that I’m certain it was echoing in the store. At least that’s what it seemed like to me. Everyone started staring and I’m sure questioning my parenting as I quickly kept trying to distract him with everything and anything nearby. He’d reached his limit, and honestly so had I. Until this employee who was heaven sent came over and distracted Maverick with a flower and a fruit snack. He immediately stopped crying and smiled, and all I could do was cry. It was just one of those days where you’re just exhausted and needed someone to say “I get it, I’ve been there.” Granted they didn’t say that, but sometimes actions speak louder than words.
I say all of this to say we should always be kind; you never know what kind of day a person is having or what demons they face. A simple act of kindness can change everything and be a reminder (especially for a mama) that they’re doing a good job.
Hello Michelle! My name is Joe, the Whole Foods employee with the flower. I’m so happy that i made an impact on you that day!
Joe, as a fellow WF team member, I’m really proud of you, and I’m using this story to help teach newer team members about the incredible impact we can have when we take the chance to be kind, compassionate, and helpful. Great job!
You mom should be proud of you! Good job, Ms. Ables!
Your story touched my heart! No matter our child’s age, every Momma wants to hear what a sweet child they are/have raised. The WF employee is my son.
This is amazing! Joe, you’re by far the best stranger I’ve ever encountered. Jeanie, you’ve raised an amazing man!!
So it DOES take a village ?- contrary to a disturbing article I read in the past claiming it doesn’t.