Dear Friend,
I hope I didn’t come across as too strange the other day. I just wanted to say that I caught a glimpse of you and your daughter while waiting in line at the grocery store, and it reminded me of my own experience. My husband and I were standing behind you, and I couldn’t help but notice your daughter. She seemed a bit older to still be in the shopping cart, and I saw her chewing on the seat belt (which is definitely not the best habit). It struck me that she didn’t speak, and I noticed the way you would gently touch her before gesturing to her.
I was reminded of my son, Charlie, who also had a penchant for chewing on the seat belt. I leaned over to my husband and whispered, “Do you think she can communicate?” “Should I say something?” “Will he think I’m completely odd?” The internal debate was real, and I could feel the pressure building.
Finally, as you finished checking out and started to walk away, my husband encouraged me to go for it. So, I mustered up the courage. I approached you at the door and said, “Excuse me, but may I ask if your daughter talks?” You looked taken aback, and I apologize for my abruptness.
You replied, “No, she doesn’t talk. Why do you ask?” In that moment, I found myself sharing about Charlie, who passed away recently. I know it was a lot to unload, but when I get nervous, my thoughts spill out. I mentioned that we give iPads to nonverbal children to help them communicate.
You shared that your daughter has one at school and at home, using the same program that we utilized with Charlie. I appreciated you expressing your condolences for my loss, even though it’s a tough subject. I explained that I was so grateful to talk to you about your daughter and share my story without judgment.
Thank you for being so open about your daughter’s diagnosis (which I wouldn’t even attempt to spell here). I also appreciate you bringing her to the grocery store that day, as it helps me heal a little more every time I can talk about Charlie or assist another nonverbal child, even if you didn’t actually need my help.
With warmth and gratitude from your friendly grocery store observer,
Maggie
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Summary
In an endearing encounter at the grocery store, a woman named Maggie reflects on her experience with a nonverbal child and her own son, Charlie, who passed away. She shares how the chance meeting allowed her to connect with the child’s father and discuss their unique experiences, highlighting the importance of communication tools for nonverbal children.