The story begins with a visit to my hairstylist. I pulled into a lot with spaces that were somewhat narrow. Plus there wasn’t a lot of room to make the necessary wide turn. I noticed it because it took me several maneuvers to turn in and then straighten out without touching an adjacent car. I even thought about parking elsewhere. But I didn’t.
When I got to my car to leave, I saw this note under my windshield:
It was signed with the driver’s name and phone number. I jumped out and looked to see what happened.
My concerns had been realized – someone had had more difficulty than I did pulling into one of those spots. The damage didn’t look bad, but I was busy and wouldn’t have time to look more closely until later. Ugh.
I have one car. When Brad was alive we had two, so there was always a car available in case one was out of commission. And I do try to take care of my car; I keep it nice and clean. I actually like this car (and that’s saying something because I don’t fall in love with vehicles).
When I finally got home, I took a close look. Yes, there looked to be a wide swath of a scrape along the rear side bumper and door. The scrape was coated in what must have been paint from the other car. I touched it and it brushed off like powder. Huh. There didn’t seem to be any dents. I did see scratches, but they seemed light. Huh, again. I wondered if they could be rubbed out with a good detailing wax and polish.
After that, I called the other driver. I told them how much I appreciated their honesty and forthrightness. This person said whatever it cost to repair, they’d take care of it. I mentioned that I wasn’t an expert, but I didn’t think it looked too bad and I’d take it in after the holiday weekend. The driver thanked me for being gracious.
The pro at the detailing shop confirmed the scratches were minor and could be polished out. So I made an appointment. It’ll end up being much less costly than if I took it to a body shop. And, since the whole car will be cleaned, I’ll offer to split the cost with the other driver.
This is a happy ending to a story that could have been a major headache. And it was all contingent on the other driver apologizing and taking responsibility. That simple act is so powerful and set the stage for everything that came next. Yes, it’s an inconvenience. I’m not going to have a car for a few hours on a Saturday. I will have to find rides to and from. But I’m not angry. I am uplifted.
Because with so much anger, rudeness, and bad manners in our culture today, it’s an uncommon reminder that people are good.
This story is a reminder there are still good people in the world. We need more kindness and care for one another. The Golden Rule is still alive “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Ruth, thanks for sharing this relevant story.
Thanks, Linda. Yes, we all need a little more of that and much less of what’s been happening.
Great story!
Glad you liked it, Sheri. Thanks!
I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize Brad had died. I remember him at one of your talks. My condolences. Love your posts btw.
Thanks, Paula. Coming up on 4 years, but who’s counting! I honestly haven’t been able to talk about it until recently. We all miss him. Appreciate that you enjoy the posts, too.