Thankful for good Samaritans
Most have an opportunity on a daily basis to be a good samaritan. Whether it be holding the door for a mother with her arms full of children and bags or stopping to help a stranded motorist, we all can serve our neighbors in some way.
Serving others, though, is often inconvenient and requires sacrifice.
I am thankful two men sacrificed time in their day to help me when I had car issues while on an assignment and didn’t just choose to look the other way.
I was on the Twin Rivers High School campus for an event and like most, when turning into the parking lot I lost all cell phone service.
Wanting to be a considerate visitor, I pulled into a parking spot and put my car in reverse to straighten it a little better.
Only when I went to put my car back in drive the shifter was sliding through the console leaving my car in reverse.
My car would only roll backward and I had to force the car off while still in reverse. It was crossways at the entrance of the parking lot blocking all other vehicles and I was in a panic.
I approached a man sitting in his car in the parking spot next to where I was attempting to park and asked if he knew anything about cars.
He pushed my car into the parking spot and began looking for the issue. While working, another man approached with a toolbox asking how he could help.
The two men worked to get my car in the position to drive to my mechanic and even let me borrow their cell phone to make calls since I had no service.
With my lack of vehicle knowledge I guess it was painful listening to me explain what happened to my mechanic all while still in a bit of a panic for missing my work assignment.
One of the men took the phone and explained everything for me. That was one small detail, but it took some of the stress off of me.
The two men could have driven past me in frustration for blocking the entrance like several others did on the hot August afternoon, but they didn’t.
I was beyond appreciative and believe I thanked them several hundred times for their assistance.
Little things like this seem to go unnoticed in our community and it’s time for good samaritans to be recognized.
The Daily American Republic has put together a campaign to recognize those who have made a life out of this type of service in “Difference Makers.”
The DAR will be asking readers to nominate those in the community who make a difference through their continued selflessness.
Ten finalist will be selected where one will be named Difference Maker of the Year at a banquet in August.
Proceeds from sponsorships of the campaign will be donated to the United Gospel Rescue Mission in recognition of all the help they provide right here in the Poplar Bluff area.
As you go through your day thinking of those who willingly lend a hand, watch for opportunities to serve others yourself.
Also, if the two gentlemen from Twin Rivers High School are reading this, thank you again so much!
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