An Understanding Smile

As Mothers who are in the thick of little beings or at any stage of Mothering know, It is not easy. It does not matter what stage you are at. Isn't it just so nice to get that understanding smile? That one that says, I get it! I am always cautious and aware when I am out in public that my kids try to be as polite and age appropriate as possible. We all have our days though, don't we? So do our children. They will not always show what they know, will they? I was so ticked off the other day about some children visiting my house and their actions and disregard for authority. I vented to a friend. Her advice is always sound. It has me reflecting on my own children and their not so perfect social skills. I can not stand to be house bound. I have enough reasons to be out and about so it works out for me. I am not one who is afraid to take my kids out. How does a child learn to behave in a circumstance he/she has never been in? They don't....I take my little people to stores and restaurants. I teach them to order food as soon as they can form a sentence. Just like anything else, nobody starts out getting it. It is a learning curve. So when those not so perfect moments happen do you look around and notice how others react? Sadly, sometimes you do not have to. There are those people out there who openly criticize with words, sounds, or gestures. They make sure you know they are not pleased with whatever just happened. Even if it is none of their business. I have had my fair share of those. Recently though I have noticed a lot more Mothers giving me that understanding smile. The smile that says in effect, "I have been there." They know they have walked a similar mile in your shoes. I have had some actually vocalize it. " I have six kids at home, take your time." I don't know that woman, but I love her. I am grateful for her kindness, patience, and example. It made me evaluate my level of tolerance for others and their children or circumstances. We are headed into the busy holiday season of shopping and long lines. Lots of people get grumpy and short tempered. I made a decision today to try my best to be a giver of that understanding smile as much as I can. Not only to Mothers, but to everyone. To step back and evaluate and to try to imagine how I would like to be treated should the tables be turned. It seems it is always easier to slow down  and help some one with an obvious handicap. It it what we don't see that makes it so much more important to be kind. I am so grateful for every understanding smile that comes my way and hope I can remember to be as generous with my understanding smiles and words.