6:45 a.m. Number 5 Train
On my way to work, lucky enough to get a seat, I look to my left where there’s a tall, skinny teenage boy leaning against the door, his iPhone in one hand, holding the hand of a little girl no more than 3, with the other.
Imagine a cocoa-faced doll dressed like an Eskimo…uncomplaining, content where she stood, clutching her juice box.
Now this could be disturbing if you choose to view it that way, my defenses dropping like a drawbridge, because without thought I held out my arms she, without pause, jumped into cuddling on my lap as if we were old friends.
I looked over at her, brother? Could this wisp of a lad be her dad, who shrugged then smiled as this tiny being happily nestled resting, what had to be, after so many stops, her weary little legs.
This is why I rarely wear mascara folks, because if I did, I’d be one chronic, crying, relatively well-dressed raccoon.
SB
This was really touching, Susannah. 😀
LikeLike
For me too. She was such a dear.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a trusting little innocent. I’m sure she enjoyed the cuddling, as I’m also sure did you.
LikeLike
You have that right. She was a little bundle of light 🙂
LikeLike
Oh jeez …. that’s a lot at any time of the day.
Ps. Looking like Alice Cooper is not a good look, unless you are in fact Alice Cooper.
LikeLike
That’s exactly who I would look like. Just call me Alice 🙂
LikeLike
A touching tale. Did you discover their relationship?
LikeLike
No…I asked no questions. They got off one stop before me…waving. Was very sweet.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lovely! Like you sometimes I miss the warmth of a child in my arms 😦 Blessings! 🙂
LikeLike
I always say it doesn’t matter I never had kids, but the truth is, I missed out.
LikeLike
I am starting to agree with you! As faith would have my dormant biological clock decided to start ticking, as I am about to turn 50…very unfair. Since I have to be positive I am compiling a list of how much better off I am without a child, or a pet, for that matter … 1)Able to come and go as I please (yes I have only 1 item for now). At the end of the day, for me, is just a question of always wanting what I don’t have, and now can’t have.
LikeLike
I think it all boils down to gratitude. To be happy with what is, with what we have. For me when my regrets pay a call, it’s the best antidote. Thanks so much for writing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A perfect story for this time of year. *sobs*
LikeLike
Me too. Kleenex everywhere.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You got an early Christmas gift!
LikeLike
That’s a sweet way of looking at it. Thanks.
LikeLike