He is having a moment

The child’s voice is higher and more penetrating than a siren.
he is four or some other age. Less than 40.  I actually cover my ear.

he is folded in half as if in prayer on the concrete floor
in the 15 items or less line.
He is praying hard and braying loud
and totally committed to his fit.

He is holding onto the low wire magazine rack
white knuckles contrast his red swollen face
He is having a moment.
people, carts and grocery stores
will have to wait.

a gentle Mexican lady in front of me
with an older boy still young enough to ride in the cart, (trade you captain, any day)
senses a break in the stand-off
as our devout youth seems to have subtly acknowledged his mother’s voice –

the mother is caring but firm and not indulging this tantrum. –

the other mother attempts to help the boy get on his feet
with a familiar, gentle lift from behind
inserting her hands below his pits as if there is a secret little-boy lifting handle in there
and there usually is

but our boy folds back down deflated, his body’s natural form.

He is hanging on while bawling, but in an almost private way.
Long meaningful vocal lines  – a long pull of the bow.

He appears to be praying to Better Housekeeping.

He really likes Better Housekeeping.
He will not leave until he has this month’s Better Housekeeping.

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