old soul.

we were assigned our discussion groups in my sociology class tuesday night. in my group is a 37 year old mother who, like me, has decided to go back to school. after introducing ourselves, she immediately turned to me with dread in her eyes and confessed that this was all too overwhelming for her and that she could not register any of the class material. i assured her that it was only the 2nd week and that she was overthinking it. she didn't seem too convinced. when the class was over, i put my hand on her back and said, "don't fret, ok? i'm here if you need help." she thanked me and asked my age. i told her. she said, "you've got an old soul, you know that?"

i'm guessing i knew because i felt my old soul smile at the recognition.