A Cupcake Story

Over the weekend, my grocery store had a grand re-opening. I missed the memo. The store was packed. I made a beeline to the fish counter. I was four deep and the woman ordering was taking an unusually long time. She nervously turned around to those behind her and apologized. I offered a weak smile.

I wasn’t in a huge rush but waiting on some days can test my patience. I looked behind the counter and they were short-staffed to serve the crowd efficiently. I was just going to have to wait which caused a subtle mood shift in to irritation. My mind wandered for a few minutes as I thought about what else I needed to buy and glanced at the long line at the cashier counters. This was supposed to be a quick stop.

I thought I can make this torturous or I can relax, take a deep breath and settle in. I decided to watch the little girl sitting in the cart ahead of me . . . a towhead in a pink and white checked dress with white tights and a black pair of Mary Janes. Her parents were probably in their late 20’s and I imagined this was their first.

A promotional woman walked by offering mini-cupcakes and the mother snagged one for her daughter. The toddler held the cupcake in her hand and with the other removed the paper with surprising dexterity. She licked the icing right off the top and handed it back to her mom and said, “More”. Funny I thought . . . that’s just what I say after eating a cupcake.

Mindful Tip:

When standing in a long line, take a deep breath, settle in and just become aware of what is around you. I promise, if you practice mindfulness in these instances, the wait will be a lot less dreadful.