Lessons Learned in Aisle 9

When I was a young mother of two toddlers, I remember getting annoyed with older ladies who would try to talk with my children and me while we shopped for groceries. Little did I realize the awesome opportunities that I could have grasped in these encounters. I had no idea those moments were packed with wisdom and that there were lessons to learn in aisle 9.

Back then, when I entered the store I was on a mission–to grab what I needed and get out of the store before missing naptime. But these ladies seldom seemed to sense my urgency. Often I’d feel a soft touch on my arm, followed by kind words.

“Is she always this adorable?”

“What a little man he is!”

These ladies, sometimes dressed to the nines, would get down to the tot’s eye level and tell them how wonderful they were. Then they would smile at me as if we shared a secret. More times than not, my youngsters would look to me for support–and protection.

Oh, boy …

Not only did these ladies miss my urgency they also missed my level of anxiety. Didn’t they see how rushed I was? Didn’t they see that by entering my children’s space they terrified them? More times than not, my littles were often startled … confused … sleepy, or hungry. I didn’t understand these women. Didn’t they recognize that I was focused on my mission?

It's surprising what can be found in a grocery store. If you're open to it, there may be lessons to be learned in Aisle 9. Share on X

Then I became an older lady

As a self-described oldster, these days I enjoy shopping for groceries. While meandering the aisles, I look for hidden deals. I check out the produce for the perfect vegetables.  The sweetest fruits.

I also watch other shoppers. When I come across shoppers who need help reaching a higher shelf, it makes me happy to offer assistance. When I see someone figuring out which toothpaste is the best deal, I offer my input. And when I see young tots, I often see a resemblance to my sweet babies of years gone by. A girl with blonde pigtails. A boy with skinned knees. Another boy singing “Jesus Loves Me” at the top of his lungs.

It’s all part of the adventure

When I left the store today, I realized I had become “that lady“. While times are different now, I know not to talk to children before clearing it with the parent. I had forgotten the look of frustration on a mother’s face when she has chores, shopping, and naps on her mind.

I challenged myself to keep my opinions to myself unless asked. that I could still enjoy the promise of challenging unknowns when I see struggling mommies with their precious young ones. But I need to enjoy it in silence.

There are, indeed, lessons to learn in aisle 9. Let’s offer a big serving of grace while we’re shopping. To the mothers as well as the well-meaning older ladies.

My Christian brothers, you know everyone should listen much and speak little …
James 1:19 NLV

While You’re Here …

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