“Caught”

Dear nice mom,

You caught me.   I wasn’t staring, but my eyes lingered on your son a little too long and you noticed.  We were in the Dollar Store.  He was fascinated with the bin full of basketballs and he was in his glory bouncing them rhythmically and laughing.  Our eyes met briefly.  I know what you were thinking.  I know because I have been on the receiving end of those stares many times myself.  Here is what I was thinking:

I thought your son was handsome.  I envied his joy and happiness.  His giggle made me smile.  I thought you were pretty.  I saw pain and fear and strength and ferocity in your eyes.  You looked tired.  You reminded me of my beautiful wife.  I thought we might be friends if our lives ever slowed down enough to chat.  I wondered if you had ever read my blog.  I wanted to smile at you.  I didn’t.  I’m sorry.