I guess I’m not as balanced as I thought…
The Girl and I went to the store today, and were waiting in line. She, grinning at people as they commented on her rare beauty and cheerful disposition. Me, answering questions about her age and offering sardonic commentary about her cheerful disposition.
Until the kind lady in front of us said, “Oh, my grandson is that same age! In fact, he’s having his birthday party next week.” And then, to Ella, “You’ll have to meet him. His name is Will!”
Fortunately, she walked away while I was still aghast, and before I had time to decide if I should tell this poor unsuspecting person about our Will. Instead, I just pulled Ella close and cried for a minute.
I wonder if people wonder why I do that sometimes. Or if they even notice.
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Oh, my goodness, Mike. I gasped just reading that.
Not in any way to downplay that sort of experience — or your reason for doing it — but I have experienced no such trauma, and I still pull my little girl close and cry sometimes. Maybe it’s because … well, I didn’t always feel so strongly about the idea of having her, I guess. So maybe it’s a little bit guilt, on my part.
Sympathies from a fellow crier (although I also echo Kate’s sentiments about not having experienced your level of trauma). We should form a club, wring all the tears out, and hope for the best for the day-to-day.
Thanks for sharing.