I grabbed a numbered ticket from the dispenser then bobbed to and fro like a robin looking for a worm. I was perusing the long deli case to see what was on sale, what looked good, what I shouldn’t eat, etc. Low numbered grazers took their places close to the counter, while shoppers like me, in for a dozen or so numbers, stepped back. Shopping carts were parked near the olive island or over by the cheese section where samples were set out.
We needed sliced turkey. We don’t go in for the fancy stuff; no mesquite or honey glazed for us, though they are tempting choices, especially when shopping hungry.
I stood, rocking from foot to foot, checking my ticket stub in case I forgot my number (it happens). I mentally selected my turkey choice. I remember when there were only a few choices of turkey to choose from. Actually, I remember when there were no choices of turkey to choose from, but, I digress.
Another shopper and I struck up a conversation. We both liked the store, the cashiers, the floral department – a good place to shop. She asked my opinion of Lacey Swiss cheese and we noted how busy it was for the time of day.
Talk. Chit chat. Two ladies waiting for thin slice or thick.
Our trail of words turned a corner to Brie. Had I tried the Brie in the cheese section? It was, she said, outstanding, and that she wanted to go over and thank the attendant cheesemonger who had given her a sample last time she was in, which she did right then and there.
My deli companion then told me she was a caretaker for an elderly woman. The woman’s best friend had just passed away. She was terribly sad. Upon tasting the brie, my deli companion said she put some in her cart, along with some apricot jam and specialty crackers and brought them as a treat, a small indulgence, for her charge – and that made all the difference in the woman’s day and in her demeanor.
My number came up.
I waved my ticket like a banner and stepped forward, but, first I gave my kind deli companion a little hug and thanked her. Such chance encounters often become a balm for my soul; reminders of the simple things that make life a wee bit sweeter in sour times. Brie and crackers, thanking the cheesemonger, just taking the time to chat – a simply remarkable slice of time at the deli counter.
How about you? Any chance encounters that soothed your soul recently?
Lifeonthecutoff's Blog 
How nice. Those brief encounters can build a community among strangers. Perhaps you will run into her again and have another chat with this kind person, or perhaps not. Maybe you will just remember someday and smile.
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“a community among strangers.” – Oh, how I like that, Janet, I apologize in advance if I should ever use that. It would be nice to run into her again, but, I will remain grateful for our brief encounter. Thank you, Janet.
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Love this story! You always find joy – and friends – in the most unlikely places.
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I think that these moments are always there, just waiting for us to embrace them. 🙂 Thank you so very much for your very kind words, Jennifer.
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I absolutely love chance encounters with a kind and gentle soul. A little chat will perk me up and make the world a bettter place. Thank you for this lovely post Penny.
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You are very welcome, Gerlinde, and I agree. I would love a chance encounter with you one fine day.
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I’m a volunteer librarian at my church and recently a man told me he’d be bringing in between 40 and 50 books. Although he said the books were in “pristine” condition and appropriate to a church library, I never quite know what to expect. (One time someone donated “nearly new” books. Yes, they were in good condition, but dated, with a copyright date of 1960’s through the 80’s.) He brought the books yesterday, and they are great and really in excellent condition. We got into a discussion about how we both love books and have too many at home. He said he had decided he may as well bring the books to a place where others can use them. Besides, his wife told him he had too many books and had to get rid of some! 🙂
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What a thoughtful, worthy donation and an encounter certain to brighten any day. I loved reading this. Thank you for sharing, and this gives me pause and a nudge to do something like this myself. 🙂
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What a lovely story Penny, I was right there with you. It was a little gift from the Universe to uplift you a bit and move you along 🙂
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Thank you, Janet, and yes, indeed “a little gift from the Universe”. It is also a reminder for me that so many of the little things in life are what help to get us through.
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You are so quick to note small but caring acts, Penny. I’m often absorbed in my own thoughts when in similar places in a day and you remind me to look up once in awhile and to be a little more open to “chance” encounters. Your deli companion sounds like such a kind person. I think sometimes when we can swap stories a bit with others and see kindness or compassion in another some of it may rub off a bit and spur us on. This was lovely to read and then think about, my friend.
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Thank you, Debra. You are sweet to say so. I don’t tell about my self-absorbed moments. 🙂 I do enjoy these encounters, however, and like to share them.
She was such a pleasant person and that she took a few moments, while waiting for her number to come up, to thank the employee added to the sweet moment. I hope all is well with you and yours.
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Oh Penny. What a lovely encounter. That probably made that woman’s day. You make every day moments splendid.
I haven’t had any chance encounters lately. But I watched an animated film called Only Yesterday. It is an import from Japan. In it the main character went to work on a farm during her vacation. Watching her pick safflowers to make rouge was so calming for some reason. Whenever I see someone doing something by hand, instead of relying on technology, I usually feel a sense of rest.
Brie is great with blue berries.
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Thank you, L. Marie. She sure made mine – and others.
What an enjoyable animated film to watch. There is something rhythmic and peaceful in watching someone use their hands – like the image of snapping beans with Grandma, crocheting or knitting . . . Sounds like an interesting animated film.
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I love hearing your shopping stories Penny. Kindness is so important in our world, and taking time for these moments to open up.
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I’m so happy that you do, Juliet. I do take joy in the little things; the acts of kindness. This was a good moment. 🙂
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