Talking To Strangers And Taking My Time

Earlier today I made a trip to Wal-Mart to pick up a few groceries and household items our family needs.  That is not my first choice of places to visit, believe me.  But it's a necessary evil at times to get a cheaper price in today's one-income family, budget-tight world. 

Anyway, we left the house before 8:00 a.m. because nothing is worse than going to Wal-Mart itself except for the crowds of people who visit the store.  I was in a hurry.  I had my list of fifty+ items and I was going to stick to that piece of paper in my hand.  Vivian had swim lessons in just over an hour so time was of the essence.

I'm walking around, avoiding eye contact but still maneuvering my grocery cart to avoid any collisions.  I stop in the dairy aisle and find the butter section.  Should I go with the Smart Balance or I Can't Believe It's Not Butter brand?  I know, I know.... it's not real butter or margarine but I'm trying to keep the calories and fat light in my house. 

I grab what I need and begin to walk away.  An elderly male holding two different Land O' Lakes tubs then begins talking to me.  "Hi," he smiles, "Do you know the difference between these two?  I want to use real butter but I also have to watch my intake."

My first thought (sadly) was... Is he asking me?  Who do I look like Mrs. Betty Crocker?  But he was polite and smiling.   So instead I replied, "I'm not sure what you mean?  What are you specifically looking for?" 

We then chatted for a bit about our limited knowledge of butter and margarine.  I told him that I wasn't sure what the best type for his situation was - that I just try to stick with the lowfat, light versions since I am maintaining my body weight.  He then tells me, "Oh you're young.  You don't need to worry about those things."   Ha!  Don't you love the charming and elder folks!

By this time Vivian was wondering why no one was paying attention to her.  The Diva then started saying hello and making babble with Mr. Land O' Lakes.  He smiled so brightly back at Viv, greeting her with big eyes.  I let her ham it up for a bit before walking away to continue my shopping.  I tried not to focus on the fact that I had lost about four minutes of my shopping excursion while speaking to this total stranger. 

As I've got my head in the milk section now, with 2% in hand, Mr. Land O' Lakes finds me again. He hands me the butter coupon that he doesn't need.  "Maybe you could use this for your purchases, " he says.  "Thank you," I reply then glance at it in his hand.  I shook my head gently no, "Oops, I bought a different brand so I don't need it.  Why don't you leave it there for the next patron to find?  Maybe it will make someone's day."  He then said okay and smiled at me.  Mr. Land O' Lakes flashed me a look that said (in some weird way) that I just made his day. 

I continued on with my list and my shopping, not giving this exchange much thought until later this afternoon.  Before I gave the kind stranger another thought, I became irritated in the long checkout line I waited in.  Soon after I grew annoyed when several of my coupons couldn't be used because of some fine print in the published lines. 

Still, the checkout person was kind and polite.  We exchanged a converastion about how we both barely eat any red meat.  Just on special occasions or outings.  I looked at my watch.  I might be late to the swim lessons but not by much. 

So the trip took a little longer than I expected.  Deal with it, I told myself.  Just as I said that, Vivian's swim teacher called to tell me that I could arrive later due to a cancellation in her schedule.  Perfect.  Problem solved.  No need to rush.  Why am I in such a hurry anyway? 

This little incident reminded me of how many times I've been helped (in big an small ways) by strangers in my life.  Some of my closest friends were once unfamiliar folks, just some random person who reached out to me in a way. 

I've been very fortunate to come into paths with wonderful people in my life.  Even though I'm usually very content with my inner circle, I must remember to extend that kind nature back to people when they need it OR when I might have something to give.  It really does feel wonderful to help someone else (even a Wal-Mart drifter) rather than just help myself (be self-obsessed) all the time. 

Why am I bothering to blog about this boring tale?  Well, I'm telling this insignificant story to remind myself of a significant point - Don't be afraid to talk to strangers, even when you are in a hurry.  You never know what good may come from it or how it could brighten a day for you and someone else.  Also, take your time.   Life should be enjoyed, not rushed through. 

I need to remember this more often and practice it.  Thank you Mr. Land O' Lakes.  I hope that butter or imitation butter you purchased gave you a delicious piece of toast or pancake.  You deserve it.