oh, dear!

An acquaintance's mother died recently and I sent her my condolences on Facebook.  When I ran into her a few weeks later at our monthly food coop pick-up I had forgotten about it, chit-chatting, going busily about the coop business of unloading the pallet, distributing orders, and weighing out produce.  Bye, see you next time.

Then I came home and it hit me that I had completely forgotten to express my compassion for her mother's passing.  Shallow living.  Oh, dear.  I'm so busy, we're all so busy.  All I was focused on was to complete my coop business and get on with all the other items on the to-do list for that day.  I felt guilty. 

I like it when people show me compassion and understanding.  As a matter of fact, my morning was fantastic because customer service people at two large organizations I needed to speak to were so incredibly helpful and personable - something that is rare and that I don't expect.  The feel-good energy radiated out for several hours and improved my mood so much. 

On an intellectual level I totally understand that compassionate behavior needs to be reciprocal.  If I want empathy and understanding I need to sow it.  I guess there is always a next time.