Lately, I’ve noticed a disturbing trend: individuals wrapped up in their own worlds who can’t even pause to hold a door open for a parent juggling a stroller and a toddler. Today, that parent was me.
I didn’t plan to stop by a Starbucks with my two little ones, but when your three-year-old urgently declares a need to use the restroom, you suddenly find yourself racing against the clock. Spotting a Starbucks, I figured it would be a two-in-one win: I could grab a much-needed caffeine boost while my daughter took care of her pressing needs.
As I approached the entrance, I noticed several adults lounging outside (ah, the joys of Florida). Balancing a hefty backpack full of supplies, maneuvering a large stroller, and holding my three-year-old’s hand, I reached for the door. Despite the presence of around seven adults—both men and women—not a single person offered to assist. I decided to channel my inner Elsa and let it go. I placed my daughter down and instructed her to stay close while I awkwardly propped the heavy door open with my foot, ushering my children in like cows.
Once inside, I dashed to the counter to place a quick order, but of course, the restroom was locked. My daughter began doing the “pee dance” in distress. Finally, a well-dressed lady exited, glanced at us, and slammed the door shut behind her. I stood there, momentarily stunned as she strutted away.
My daughter turned to me and asked, “Mommy, why didn’t she hold the door open? She’s a grown-up.” I shook my head in disbelief. Meanwhile, my little girl attempted to help by holding the door for me and her brother in the stroller. I cringed at the thought of her touching the germs. After she managed to relieve herself, I was ready to bolt.
I grabbed my much-needed coffee and surveyed the crowd by the door. Surely, one of these people would step up to hold the door for me. Now I was balancing a hot drink, a stroller, and my backpack, all while carrying my daughter. Yet, not a single soul—be it a doctor in scrubs, middle-aged men, a mother with her son, a businesswoman, or a grandfather—offered to help.
Struggling to push the door open, I finally managed to escape. My daughter paused, turned, and remarked, “That was rude.” At just three years old, she recognized that we should lend a helping hand to one another. Manners like saying “please” and “thank you” should be second nature. Personally, I always hold doors open for those behind me, regardless of who they are. Perhaps it’s the Midwestern values instilled in me, but it’s simply about being a decent human.
Maybe I should’ve asked for help more explicitly. Yet, as my daughter pointed out, these were all adults who witnessed a weary mother struggling. I hold hope for her generation that kindness and respect will triumph over the self-absorbed mindset that seems to be prevailing today. I’ll teach my son to always assist others and instill in my daughter the importance of compassion. Our actions can significantly impact someone’s mood, possibly altering their day or even their life.
So, the next time you see someone in need, particularly a mother, remember to lend a hand. We all deserve a little help sometimes.
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Summary:
In a recent trip to a coffee shop, I was disheartened by the lack of assistance from adults when I was struggling with my two young children. My three-year-old daughter highlighted the rudeness of the situation, reminding me that kindness and helping others should be second nature. This experience has reinforced my commitment to teaching my children the value of compassion and support for one another.
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