Yesterday was a great day at the grocery store. After picking up the few things I thought I needed, I went to a checkout line and was waiting my turn behind a young woman with a child who was 1 ½-2 years old. They both were as blonde as anyone could be and when the little girl in the shopping cart turned around, I saw she had the most intense blue eyes I have ever seen. 

Very close to the line, the store had strategically placed a display of small stuffed animals and the child grabbed one, which she clutched to her chest.

“Mommy look.”

“That’s a turtle, Sophie.”

“It’s green.”

“Yes it is, Sophie.”

“I need a turtle.”

“Put it back, Sophie.”

“I need it.”

“We have to put it back, give it to the lady who is helping us.”

“No, I need it,” Sophie said softly, still clutching the turtle.

Meanwhile the mother was having a conversation with the clerk over the price that rang up for one item in her cart. It appeared she was watching her budget very closely. 

Watching and listening to this interaction between daughter and mom, I told the clerk the little girl needed that turtle and signaled I would pay for it. 

When the mom realized what I had done she began to thank me profusely. 

“Sophie, this nice man just gave you that turtle. You need to thank him.”

Sophie turned around and looked at me hesitantly, then held the turtle closer. 

As the mom walked away, she continued to thank me and I said you’re welcome, have a happy Tuesday.

Then the clerk thanked me as I collected my things and left.

That was the best seven dollars I had spent in a long time.

Ken Kaiyala 
8-9-23