Tenderness

This morning I was rushing through Target to get a few groceries before heading out for the day. David and I were rushing through the store gathering a few necessities and a few fun things.

As we rounded the corner to head for the check out points, I was completely caught off guard when I saw the most tender moment right there. I almost stopped in my tracks to watch it. I might have just stood there, if it hadn't been for David prodding me to move on.

There was a husband and wife shopping for lotion. Nothing too unusual about that, but in his hands were a pile of various hats and scarfs. At the edges of her current scalp were the obvious signs of hair loss that had already started. She was moving slowly and frailly, and with each small step her husband seemed to almost leap to catch her.

As I was checking out, I had the honor to talk with them for a few minutes. They are bravely facing a battle of breast cancer. My stomach dropped when she said she was going to the hospital today to get her 3rd Neulasta shot. Oh, how I hated those shots. Yet, they spoke courageously and looked forward with hope to their conquest in November.

A wave of emotions washed over me as they walked away today. I couldn't even speak to the cashier. I could barely hold back the tears enough to finish the transaction. November just seems so far away. I'm so thankful to be on the other side of that battle.

And, I'm so thankful that they have each other. It really was tender moment to see this morning. I felt honored to witness it.