This morning, after dropping my little one off at preschool, I spotted a nearby mom getting into her car. She grabbed a napkin from the console and began to cry, her shoulders shaking as she held it close to her face. My heart sank. I could sense the weight she was carrying. Leaving our children to navigate the world can be overwhelming, and I understood that struggle all too well.
I couldn’t just stand by. After all, I’ve been that mom, alone and crying in my car, wishing someone would pause to offer a comforting word. Sometimes, we just need a “friend in the moment” to remind us we’re not alone.
So, I decided to reach out. I stepped out of my car with the baby in tow, approached her window, and gestured for her to roll it down.
“Hi! I noticed you seemed upset, and I wanted to check in on you.”
She dabbed her eyes with the napkin. “Thank you so much. I think I’m okay, just… it’s tough.”
“I completely understand. Last year, when my oldest started school, I cried for weeks. He had a hard time adjusting, so I get where you are coming from. It’s tough now, but trust me, it will get better.”
“Oh my gosh, that’s exactly what I needed to hear. I’m really struggling, and so is my son.”
“It’s hard, I know. But you’re doing great, and your child is lucky to have you!”
“I really needed this. What’s your name?”
“Jenna. And you?”
“Maria. Thank you, Jenna.”
In under a minute, I could see her demeanor change—the tension in her shoulders eased. I hoped my small act of kindness made her day a little brighter.
This wasn’t an act of heroism; it was simply a reminder of how impactful a moment of connection can be. We might not become lifelong friends, and that’s perfectly fine. What matters is showing up for each other in whatever way we can.
I know that approaching a stranger like this isn’t for everyone. Some might find it daunting to knock on a window and offer support. But we could all step slightly out of our comfort zones to help one another. A friend in the moment can make a world of difference.
Being present for someone else can take many forms. It might mean bringing a warm blanket to a person experiencing homelessness that you pass daily. It could involve moving your neighbor’s trash cans to the curb when they forget. Or it might simply be allowing someone to cut in line because you can see their child is in desperate need of a nap.
We all lead busy lives, and it’s easy to get caught up in our own thoughts. However, taking a moment to connect with others can be invaluable. Life is short, and people are more important than our to-do lists. When you feel the urge to step in and help, do it!
It might feel awkward or messy, but the effort is what counts. Just show up and let everything else fall into place.
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In summary, don’t hesitate to be a friend in the moment. Whether it’s a kind word or a small action, showing up for someone can create a ripple effect of positivity and connection.
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