Look After Me

There are fewer things that a habitual caretaker cherishes more than the rare, tiny moments when someone helps her or tends to her needs:  a blanket when she naps.   A spoon for her ice cream.  Unsolicited help with the groceries.  Assistance with the small animal husbandry.  An offer to bring a coat for her.

These unexpected and unusual happenstances bring her a sudden small rush of joy.  She is nurtured, and she is grateful.

The happiness of life is made up of minute fractions -- the little soon forgotten charities of a kiss or smile, a kind look, a heartfelt compliment, and the countless infinitesimal of pleasurable and genial feeling. - Samuel Taylor Coleridge