It's painful to watch: a frazzled single parent managing an upset or out-of-control toddler. I can picture the countless times I've been shopping only to peer down the next aisle and see an exhausted mother lecturing an angry child. And as soon as she finished speaking, the little kid's shenanigans instantly resume.

I'm sure every parent feels overwhelmed and alone some days. Manga artist and Instagrammer 西山ともこ Tomoko Nishiyama (nishiyama_tomoko07) is sympathetic. She recently turned a story from one of her followers into a sentimental post. In the piece, a mother of two takes her youngest to a department store while her oldest is at preschool. It seems like a relaxing day of shopping, but lunchtime proves to be a challenge.

Even two years later, the mother featured in this story remembers the act of kindness she received. It was stressful raising two young children, and the food court staff's thoughtfulness made a deep impression on her. Fortunately, when she needed it most, she found a helping hand.

Readers found the manga touching and relatable:

Indeed, you can't help but feel for a parent managing a young family by themselves. Hopefully, society can acknowledge the effort required and support those who are overwhelmed.

Finally, if you liked the manga, author Tomoko Nishiyama has other stories available on her blog and Instagram page.

Also, keep an eye out for her book 『ママにしてくれてありがとう』 (Thanks for Making Me a Mother).