Downs With Ups

I admire my daughter.  She has a way of cutting through noise and distractions to focus on what truly is important and at this time of year it’s Christmas spirit.

The other day we joined hundreds of people to do our Christmas shopping.  We had nearly reached the end of the list.

If you know of Maslow’s theory of the hierarchy of needs, you’ll know that unless your most basic physiological needs are met, there’s no way you’ll feel like socialising, especially with a complete stranger who has served hundreds of customers before you.

As we stood in the queue, I was contemplating which of my needs was more urgent: food or the loo.

“Next”, called a weary voice.

We duly walked toward the counter and I heard the feet of the people in line behind us take a couple of steps forward.

“Hello,” says Poppet.

The tired-looking woman managed a smile as she took the products from me to scan.  I’m hoping for a simple transaction:  I give her money, she bags the items, we then leave.

“I’m going to my Grannan and Pa’s for Christmas,” Poppet said, oblivious to the shop assistant’s indifference and my hunger.

Sensing a minor delay to their shopping agendas, I could feel the eyes of the people behind me burning into the back of my head.  ‘Hurry up’, they would have been thinking.

“What are you doing for Christmas?”  Poppet asks.

Happy to indulge in this minor break from the monotony, the shop assistant replied.  “I’ll be with my family.”

Poppet had no idea of the frustration the others may have been feeling, being held up for just those few additional moments.

“My Pa has come home from hospital.  He is very sick but he will still have seafood to eat.  He loves prawns.

Suddenly, there was a shift in the energy around us.  The queue behind us became quite interested in this small interchange and the assistant’s face softened.

“And what are you going to have to eat?  Do you have a favourite food?”  Poppet persisted.

“We’ll have lots to eat.  Turkey and ham and veggies.”

“I love roast turkey,” replied Poppet as the assistant broke into a smile passing me the bag.

“Come on sweetheart, let’s go now,” I said moving Poppet along.

Poppet gave the woman a smile who waved warmly as we turned to leave.  For a brief moment, it seemed everyone felt a sense of calm.  They were reminded of their own families and the importance of the spirit of Christmas.