I didn’t expect anything special that day. I was just another tired mom standing in a checkout line at a Target in Gainesville, trying to stay calm while my kids grew restless beside me.
When the total came up, I did what I always do. I looked at the number, took a breath, and quietly handed the cashier the items I’d saved for last — a pumpkin spice candle and a small makeup item. Little things. Things that felt unnecessary when the budget was already stretched.
What you didn’t know was that I save those items every time, knowing I’ll probably put them back.
You didn’t know the two fussy kids with me were only half of my reality — I have four.
You didn’t know that I’m dealing with postpartum depression after my youngest, or that scent is one of the few things that helps lift the heaviness on the hard days.
You didn’t know that the week had already worn me down — sick kids, school meetings, an emergency dental visit, and endless noise. I had been looking forward to nap time, to lighting that candle, to having just one quiet moment to breathe.
But budgets don’t care about feelings. So I put the items back.
What you did know was that I was human.
You saw more than a distracted mom slowing down the line. You heard me ask to return those items, and without hesitation, you said you’d take them. When I tried to refuse, you didn’t let me. You told me I deserved it.
That’s when I broke.
Not because of the candle. But because someone noticed. Someone cared. Someone chose kindness without needing a reason.
You didn’t make a speech. You didn’t ask for praise. You just stepped in, paid, and reminded me that I mattered.
You are the good in the world. You turned an exhausting day into one I’ll never forget. You gave me more than a candle — you gave me a moment of grace.
And I promise you this: I will pay it forward.
