Photo by April Perry
The other day my husband and I were at the store with all four kids. It wasn’t just any store, it was Costco, and it was way too close to Christmas. To say that there were a lot of people there would be an understatement. It was jam packed! It wouldn’t have been a big deal, or even worth mentioning except for the fact that three of my four children were crying, whining, or begging for something and complaining because they weren’t getting it. I love it when they are like that! I wish I could have said that I took it as an opportunity to recognize them as a blessing, but I’d be lying.
I was trying very hard to have a conversation with my husband about whether or not to buy a GPS. But, I couldn’t even hear him because my little beauties were being so awesome. Do I even need to mention all of the comments from bystanders about how horrid my kids were and what great parents we weren’t? Of course not. We’ll just leave that part out.
Then, this old couple walked by. The older woman said, “Aren’t you lucky to have so many kids?” I shot her the “Are you serious?” look and she winked at me and said, “Of course you are! You have music wherever you go!” That was all it took! I immediately started laughing which made my kids stop crying, whining, and complaining and laugh too. They had no idea what they were even laughing at, but it didn’t matter. We were in the middle of Costco laughing about how blessed we are to be a family and my heart was full to overflowing. All I can say is bless her. Bless her for being kind and genuine to a perfect stranger in need. I hope I can be more like her when I grow up.
QUESTION: How can we find the music amidst life’s hectic moments?
CHALLENGE: Search out opportunities to count your blessings as a family.
Comments (15)
Sarah, thank you for sharing that great experience. I love what that older lady said and yes “Bless her!” for doing that. Perspective is everything.
Perspective really IS everything. Thanks for leaving me a comment!
Your article was so touching. It is something all moms relate to and a wonderful reminder to all of us to approach “the background” music in our lives differently. Thanks, for sharing.
Thanks Heather. I really appreciate your kind words.
What a feel-good experience for us to all remember. My “moments” with the children were usually at the grocery store. Thanks, Sarah, you brightened my day and taught us all a new coping skill.
Thanks for your comments! I’ve usually heard a full symphony by the time I leave the grocery store with all of my munchkins. 
thanks for sharing this sarah! what a great reminder in the midst of the chaos that sometimes feels like the norm. congrats on this article. you are amazing!!!
Awww thanks Kindee. You know I love your guts.
Living in the moment and seeing it as a “one and only” experience is what its all about. I’ve learned that on a whole different level this week.
Thanks for sharing, Sarah girl.
Amanda, Thank you so much for your comments. You have no idea how much your friendship means to me. love you girl!
I love that this woman said that to you…as a mother of six and four out of the nest I love to encourage younger women to enjoy and cherish this time of their life…it passes so quickly. Laugher can take the edge off of most events in life and turn it around.
Janette – www.janettessage.blogspot.com
I appreciate so much the encouragement that I get from others. Women like you are such good examples. It is hard sometimes to appreciate “life in the trenches”, but absolutely worth it. Thanks for encouraging me!
Sarah I LOVE this!! Such a timely reminder that if we don’t laugh at some of the things that happen with little ones around, we may all end up crying What a lovely (and intuitive) woman to share those words with you exactly when she did!!
Thanks for the reminder that laughter really is the best medicine!!
