I was working in my little clothing shop when, one evening just before closing, a pregnant woman walked in. I was about to shut up, but she kept browsing through the dresses. We started talking, and she told me her husband had left her with two children. Life had been hardshed had to move out of her rented flat and back in with her parents. They helped as best they could, but then she found out she was pregnant. Too late for an abortion now. She had no choice but to go through with it. None of her clothes fit anymoreshed outgrown everything. A strangers story. I could tell she was looking for the cheapest options, but even that was beyond her means. Exhausted, I thought, *It wont hurt to just give her one dress.* Her face lit upshe was so happy, so grateful. Then she left. Time passed. I forgot all about it.
Then, on an ordinary day, a woman walked in, smiling. I couldnt place her at first. She reached into her modest handbag and pulled out a small parcel. Remember me? she said. I was pregnant when I came in, and I couldnt afford that dress. But you gave it to me. We talkedyou told me everything would be alright, that we can endure anything life throws at us. That support meant everything. And you were rightI got through it. Had the baby. Its just me and my three kids now, but were doing well. And I believe things will keep getting better. Thank you for being there when I needed it. We hugged, wished each other well, and then she left.
I unwrapped the parcel. Inside were wingssimple, angel wings. I felt a pang of guilt. All Id done was give her that dress, mostly just to ease my own discomfort at seeing her struggle. But in that moment, without meaning to, Id been her supporther angel. Someone who listened, who cared, who spoke a few kind words and gave her a simple dress.
It doesnt take much to pull someone out of the darkness. Sometimes, just a few words of kindness and a smile can do it.
