There are a lot of things to be thankful for in your life. Some days, it's your parents. Other days, you may be extremely happy they are a few hours away. But one thing I have found myself consistently thankful for is the mechanically inclined people in my life. I may not know what in God's green world is going on under the hood of my vehicle, but they always do.
It astounds me how I can call them up, whether it be my dad or one of my close friends, simply describe what my car is doing, and they magically know what's wrong. I'll be making some weird noises on my end of the phone and I can almost hear them nodding along saying to themselves, "Yup, that's the (insert problem part here)." I sit there dumbfounded about how my elephant and screeching noises lead to that finding.
I then wonder shortly if they would have made better doctors than mechanics. These people could walk through a hospital ward, listen to the patients, and diagnose problems without missing a beat. After all, I suppose we are all machines of a biological nature. But on second thought, I need my car as soon as possible so I'm content with their current calling.
Their working magic with cars is not the limit to their abilities, astoundingly. Most, if not all, of the mechanics I know are also good working with their hands in general. Whether it's making you an end table, or fixing up the one you are emotionally attached to, they are handy in about any task. Just don't complain if your beloved mechanic smells like the cars they work on all day.
These people may not always be the nicest on the outside in the neighborhood, but they are always there if you need them. Something that may costs hundreds of dollars in labor at a shop they are willing to do on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. If doesn't matter to them if it is taking out of their free time. These people are doing what they love, and helping the people they love, too. Even if the creative swearing makes it seem otherwise.
Not too long ago, my father helped me put two wheel bearings--among a few other things--into my car. I stood in the shop, held the light like any good kid does (even though I'm 22), and watched him tear into the vehicle. It took a total of around eight or nine hours to finish what we wanted that night. He then got up the next morning at 5:30, before I was awake, and finished the car before I had rolled out of bed. Words can not describe how grateful and amazed I was.
Always be sure to take some time and thank the ones who work on your vehicles. The rides we love are working flawlessly because of them. If it doesn't? They are the first in line to make sure it's running well and get you back on the street (whether the street wants you there or not).
