The holidays have been a whirlwind, of course, just like for you...
BUT - in the midst of the whirlwind as I, in a dazed and confused holiday whirlwind-induced stupor, stood at the front of the checkout line at Target, a moment happened.
It was the day after Christmas, I think. I navigated the familiar and wonderful Super Target like a pro, albeit a dazed one, zombie-like, making no eye contact with a single human being. I almost forgot there were others of those in the store.
Grabbing my bags of purchased goods, there was a lone box of Uncle Ben's Original Long Grain and Wild Rice Fast Cook version that I realized never made it onto the belt. It was not bagged, and it was what would turn leftover smoked turkey into Chicken and Wild Rice Soup for dinner (except with smoked turkey).
The next guest was now being served, so I finally made eye contact with the cashier and asked if I might be allowed to quickly purchase my main ingredient after the current guest was through. Yes, I could.
Waiting in my continued dazed state, I began to surmise my surroundings. A family of four with two small boys was behind me - all with such a joyful countenance. I wondered at their joy, being at Target on the day after Christmas with the rest of the city and two small boys. Then I was alerted to the fact that the cashier was trying to get my attention.
She smiled and said I could go. I looked up and noticed the couple was looking at me and smiling. They bought my rice.
I was abruptly shaken out of my dazed state and realized that this couple saw me. They didn't just accidentally notice me or vaguely take a glance about - they SAW me.
And I knew the source of their joy, and I felt ashamed that I had forgotten. I walked to my car with a goofy, unstoppable grin on my face.
May I have eyes that see in 2013.
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