There I was. Standing in line at the grocery store, and the woman in front of me was upset. She stared to raise her voice so all could hear. She demanded to see a manager, accused the cashier girl of lying, was angry, firm and mean. She insulted the girl numerous times and walked away harshly. The girl and her manager were still very kind to this woman, and even though the girl did in fact, make a mistake with this woman's purchases, she was treated so very poorly. I was sad, embarrassed and upset inside. As the girl started to ring up my things, her manager was comforting her. I felt prompted to say something to her. I wanted to let her know that she shouldn't listen to that woman and give her some sort of comfort myself. Instead I just smiled at her, was extra nice and thanked her for her help.
I felt so impacted by the experience for some reason. As we walked out to the car, I was telling Erwin what had happened and what was said. (He wasn't next to me at the time) I felt regretful that I didn't say something more to the girl and kept thinking about that lady and all that she said, and the way she said it. As we got in the car and buckled up, I threw my arms around Erwin's neck and started to cry. It surprised him, and myself as well. I couldn't stop the tears from flowing as I felt so bad for the cashier girl and for wishing I had comforted her and made her feel better. I felt sad that someone could be so harsh and impatient. I felt my heart open and be so sensitive to the fact that people can be really mean at times. Especially to those who may not deserve it.
Now, I have seen many people be mean. Working with CPS had me dealing with downright mean and cruel people at times, and I have seen much that was wrong when it came to maltreatment. But for some reason on this day, it hit me. And I wept. I regretted not saying something to this girl and I went home and prayed for her and her heart. I promised the Lord that I would do more for people when it came to charity and love and to help me be in tune with the spirit so I might serve those around me who need it.
Sadly enough, the rest of the day I was witness to mean people. At almost every other place we went to for errands, there was someone upset, freaking out, being mean or impatient with someone and dramatic. Eventually I told Erwin that I was done for the day, and wanted to just go home. I found relief as I walked through the door and spent the rest of my day hidden and tired. I know there are kind people in this world, and I never give up hope that "good" will prevail. But on this day, I was saddened.
All this, on this day, gave me more motivation to be Christ-like. I had new desires to seek out those in need and comfort and increase my charity. Jesus is our perfect example of unconditional love. I pray that I may be more worthy of the spirit to guide me and that I might take heed to the promptings I have. I pray that I may be more patient, kind and soft spoken. I love this gospel. I love my Savior. I'm thankful for the examples of those around me who help remind me what kindness is. I pray for those who don't experience love or kindness much. And for those who don't know how to give it. I pray that we all may try a little harder to be kind to those around us.
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