To the man with the beer at the next table, I first want to convey my sincere apology for the chaos that was going on at my table. As I'm sure you noticed, I have quite the brood going over here, with my 3 girls making messes and making noise. Their parents own this restaurant and I'm pretty sure the girls think that means they do too. Not the point.
Secondly, I want to say thank you for being so kind and considerate-even more than tolerant- when my youngest kept turning around to watch you in your booth. And thank you for smiling and making silly faces at her when she made silly faces at you. Thank you for understanding and playing along as she tried to hurl herself over the booth to get to your side. And when I got up to leave, collecting sippy cups and binkies, you smiled politely, appreciating the job I have and the work that it is; not pitying me or passive aggressively suggesting that I need to get these children under control. I would have said thank you then-I tried. But at that point all I could do was just smile like an idiot, not having the words at the moment to properly convey my gratitude. That in itself is a feat. You, sir, made me speechless. It's good to know that can happen.
After a sermon titled "Have You Spoken With Any Angels Lately?" this was such a nice ending to our Sunday lunch. I don't know if this man reads blogs or will ever see this thank you. Something tells me my stupid smile was probably enough for him. But moments like these are just worth remembering and a nice reminder of what our proper response to others should be. Whether it's a Nanny Mama with three rambunctious preschoolers or another scenario, let's take the time to be kind to others no matter the circumstances, making others' day with our simple acts, and going beyond just toleration of others to appreciation.
Sincerely, a very grateful Nanny Mama
P.S. Those of you reading this, if you haven't gotten my book What Goes On in My Teacher's Head yet, you should.
