Monday, April 30, 2012

Overheard in Starbucks

The little girl with the tight brown curls was practically bouncing in anticipation.

"Mommy, is that mine?" she asked. 

She looked to be about my sister's age. 

"No, honey, that's a latte. It's not for you."

"I want a latte, too!"

The mother sent an indulgent smile the barista's way. 

"One kids' hot chocolate, please."

The barista, a young woman who could've been in high school or college, turned with a grin and started preparing the drink. 

"Hey, Mom?" the girl asked in a singsong voice. It seemed like if she stayed silent for too long she'd start vibrating with energy. 

"Yes?"

"What do you want me to be when I get older?"

Her well-dressed mother thought. 

"You mean, for a job?"

"Yeah."

"Well, honey, I want you to be what you want to be. I want you to do whatever makes you happy."

I failed to suppress a smile and hoped the mother didn't think I was some odd-ball eavesdropping on their conversation. The barista handed me my frappuccino and I was still smiling when I walked out the door. 

4 comments:

Principled Slut said...

That sounds like a wise mother.

Though I might have gotten her a small latte or shared mine with her. lol

laura b. said...

That's a great answer...do what makes you happy :)

Anonymous said...

There are still some decent parents left out there!

How are you with your situation? Hope things are going well, and that you are at least physically healing.

Peace <3
Jay

Secret Agent Woman said...

Basically my policy with the kids - life's to short not to do work that makes you happy.