When I was shopping this week, I was very caught up in all the things I was looking for. Trying to keep my list straight in my head so I would not forget anything. I was so busy thinking, I did not notice the older woman standing next to me in the aisle.

As I continued to look, she asked me if these cup holders would work for soda. I answered that I thought so and that they looked made for soda cans. A few minutes a later she asked me if I thought this was going to make her grandson happy if she got him this game. I answered that I thought it looked fun and I am sure he will like anything she got him. I then mentioned that they were on sale buy one get one free when she bursted out laughing in the middle of my sentence. I didn’t know what to say but just continued on my shopping. It wasn’t until the older woman said, “Billy I need you to listen to me or you are not getting ice cream,” that I realized she wasn’t talking to me…

She wasn’t talking to anyone…no one was there…

I immediately felt so sad for her. She must be so alone that she made up someone to talk to while she shopped. I thought to myself how I hope that is never me.

Later in the day, I was thinking about the older woman again and realized maybe I did not need to feel sorry for her. Maybe she is having the time of her life. Maybe she doesn’t even know she is alone and these are the best conversations she has ever.

I think it is easy to see someone and judge their life because of our own personal fears. Sometimes we just need to let others live their lives as we live our own.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe!

1 Comment »