What do you do when you see a stranger crying in public?

I have two examples:
Example One – Today I was in the supermarket and there was a woman sitting at a table very red eyed and teary. She looked miserable. I felt so bad for her and wanted to offer her some comfort or even a warm look but felt impeded socially in doing so.

Example Two – I have cried in public myself. Not on purpose mind you but sometimes it is very hard to help. I’ve had both occasions where I wanted people to ignore me and just let me cry and other occasions when I just wished someone would say something sweet to me.

What is it in society that makes us feel that we shouldn’t approach someone crying in public? Is it a personal choice or more of a societal learning of impeding on their boundaries?

Topics: social, etiquette, emotions, crying, society, sad