There I was in the checkout line. I only had a few essential items in hand but no self-checkouts were open. In front of me was an old woman—probably close to 80 years old. She had a walker with only two items in the small basket attached to the front. I found myself baffled that she had gone out of her way to buy a small bouquet of flowers and a sympathy card. Who could that be for in her life? As I stood there I thought about old age and the sorrow it must involve as those close to you pass away. As a young 25 year old who was fresh out of college, I tried not to let fear of the future drag me down. Today, however, this woman in front of me must have sorrow if she went to the trouble of buying a gift, and my heart went out to her.

I decided to purchase her things for her, so I struck up a conversation. “Hello ma’am,” she looked startled as she turned to me. “I noticed that you are buying a sympathy gift for someone. I would like to buy those for you.”

She lit up and had no objection. “Thank you young lady. I appreciate that.”

I added her items to my small pile and paid for the lot of it. I walked with her to her car where her grandson was waiting to make the drive home. I recognized him, but he was much older looking than how I had known him. We were classmates in 5th grade, but he had moved away before the next year. We were never close, but I always got along with him.

“Taylor?” He must have recognized me too.

“Yes, Braden? I haven’t seen you in years. How is it you’re back in town?”

“I’m here helping out my family. My grandma’s brother-in-law died last Wednesday, and my family is taking care of the funeral. My great aunt has no other family to help out.”

“I’m so sorry to hear that. If there’s anything your family needs don’t hesitate to ask. I know those things can be such a mess, so just let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.” I really did want to be helpful, but I also couldn’t keep my eyes off of Braden. We never had anything in common to talk about, but suddenly there was a connection that I didn’t understand.

“Thanks, Taylor, that means a lot. I know my mom could use a hand with the pictures and other decorations. I think she would really use you if you want to help.”

“Absolutely, anything.”

***

After the funeral, Braden and I were able to catch up more. Again the connection was so strange for me. The conversation seemed so natural, and he was very genuine. Then the heavy question was asked, “How are your parents doing; what have they been up to?” It was like a dark cloud suddenly hovered over me. I knew I would be a mess when I tried to answer. Would he think I’m emotionally damaged? Would he think I’m too clingy for wanting to help his family through a loss? What would he think when I tell him my parents died 10 years ago? Would he understand the grief? Maybe that was why we suddenly connected differently.