By Charles Gray
Someone else called 911. Mrs. Lansberry couldn’t. She gripped her shopping cart tighter and trembled as her eighty-year-old husband collapsed. Strangers tried to help, but he didn’t respond.
Over the sound system, ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’ played. A song she knew well, the one she and her husband first danced to at their prom. He called it “our song” and always teased her, saying it suited her stoic personality.
With clenched teeth, she stifled her cries of anguish.
After Emergency Medical Services failed to resuscitate him, a paramedic approached her. “Ma’am, are you his wife?”
A tear ran down her cheek.
Thanks for that story, Charles. I can imagine it touches the hearts of many spouses and loved ones. Such a simple moment in Life, resonating tenderly and emotionally through your word pacing.
Thanks, Helen.
A bittersweet story brings to the forefront the unexpected events in Life. A reminder to cherish each moment with loved ones, even if they might seem like strangers at times.
Thanks, Mike.
You said it all in so few words. Good job.
Thank you Michelle.
Gripping lead sentence. The section regarding the grocery store song was unexpected and surprising. Good read!
Thank you, Cheryl.
So endearing and heartfelt.
Thank you, Ranabrata.