Cavity

I had my very first cavity today. I mean, I know 38 years is a pretty good run to make it in life with no cavities, but it’s a sad day to lose that title that I’ve always been so secretly proud of (also on the list are having a really good credit score and never having broken a bone). My husband had his first cavity a few years ago, and since that day has always been pushing our dentist to find a cavity in my teeth to even us out. I thought for sure he would be cheering and gloating when I told him the news, but instead he gave me the most sympathetic look and without a word pulled me into a tight hug. With my cheek pressed against his warm shirt that smelled like summer, I felt so loved. It’s the smallest thing in life and not even something I’m truly devastated about, but the fact that he could show so much empathy and kindness for even something so tiny filled up a different cavity in me. Especially when there seems to be such a shortage of empathy and kindness in the world right now. So, I’m going to follow his example and try to pour my love into whoever I interact with. If I really SEE them (see their hearts, see what matters to them) then maybe the empathy will fill up their cavities, big or small.