To The Kind Stranger That Gave Me A Helping Hand
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

To The Kind Stranger That Gave Me A Helping Hand

I still can't believe I am so blessed this happened.

376
To The Kind Stranger That Gave Me A Helping Hand
livingwaterlutheran.u
"We've had a doozy of a day, a real doozy." -Tucker from "Tucker and Dale vs. Evil"

I know how this sounds; trust me, I could assume some of the thoughts racing through your mind. What kind of movies is this weirdo into? Well, whether you know the movie or not, you'd laugh and completely understand how it is an accurate representation of the day I've been having.

My day can simply be described as a doozy. Murphy's law was enacted as it rang true that what could turn terribly wrong, simply would. It wasn't just merely the day, it was events leading up to it that created a perfect combination that transformed my life into complete chaos.

Let's explain a little bit. Has something ever happened out of your control that seems to have horrendous consequences? I can relate and sympathize with the saying "when it rains it pours." The stress of my responsibilities always seem to be looming overhead, so when life tosses in another challenge that requires an elaborate plan, endless effort, and often times, money, it can be difficult.

Driving home from my shift, I ran into an opportunity of misfortune -- I guess it would be better said that the opportunity hit right where it hurts. My heart, you may ask? No, my headlight. My poor headlight fell victim to the carelessness of a work truck. I'm sure the driver thought his equipment was secure, but the universe proved him wrong as a giant tin can came bouncing out of the trailer. Not wanting to swerve into a wall and die in a fiery crash, I did what I could and tried to avoid the can -- to no avail, I clearly failed. My headlight shattered and misfortune ran its course.

I took it into the dealership, in hopes of finding a cheap repair -- yes, I know at a dealership this is unlikely. I didn't have another option! The internet failed me; that, or my inability to properly search on Google. I couldn't find a replacement cover anywhere, and if Amazon didn't have it well who the hell would?

Hope had been lost and reality proved to be a lot harder of a slap in the face. It was time to throw in the towel and bite the bullet. Put on my big girl pants and take it into the dealership.

Now, you should know that my father is the only one to ever really deal with my car when it's in the shop. I have little knowledge about cars, and I am completely willing to admit that and accept help from an expert. Naturally, I was nervous to handle this situation on my own.

I dropped my car off and expected to return later in the day. And my return to the dealership is where the story really begins. The story where I was shown kindness when everything seemed to be crashing down around me.

On my way back, my service advisor from Honda, named Dan, called me to inform me that my headlight repair would cost $600.

I'll wait for you to close your mouth from astonishment...

Yes, I was immediately stressing out that one little accident (that I didn't cause!) would cost me so much money. However, when I arrived, Dan had already been working on a more cost-effective solution; he was able to cut the cost down to $400, which still wasn't ideal.

So I asked him to be blunt and give it to me straight. Could a broke college kid, with some half-assed mechanic skills, find a replacement and save some money? He honestly considered it and took me to the mechanic to ask if it was a possibility.

Sadly, it was not a possibility. Unexpectedly, he asked me if I was paying for it. Well, of course, my mistake, my responsibility. Right? As a new adult, why should I expect my parents to suffer for my misfortune?

I think he admired my morality because it was after that he said he would take care of me. He would waive the labor fee and the only amount of money I would pay is $200. His mechanic agreed to do the work for free so I could save on costs.

I wanted to cry right then and there. I didn't know if it was from happiness or from the pure surprise that these random strangers were eager to help someone they saw struggling. Before I left, Dan told me "Everyone deserves a break sometimes. Don't you?" I guess I do. And I can't begin to express my gratitude.

I tried to express my gratitude and I gave Dan a hug -- I don't think he was really expecting it. But I felt so blessed, I even yelled, "Thank the sweet Lord" in the shop. God had given me a break, and blessed me with kind people that cut me some slack. They empathized with my struggles of life and showed me the most amazing kindness.

Whether it was excellent customer service or a random act of kindness, Dan truly made my heart happy. There is an obvious reason why my parents trust him so much with our service.

Dan is just one of those good people who want to help other good people. I am so blessed the world still has people like this, and it makes me realize there is always fortune when days are dark.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

70709
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

132334
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments