Random Act of Kindness

I woke up far too early today.  It was a rough morning, against my better judgement I viewed a couple of tear jerking things on facebook.  I had a list a mile long so I had to pick myself up and drag myself out the door. 

First thing on my list was an oil change and tire rotation.  When I saw the mechanic approach me after only about 10 minutes, I knew it couldn't be good news.  Apparently my water pump was leaking.  The plus side, I was still under the extended warranty.  But, since they were in there, they should replace some belts and of course a filter or two as well. 

As long as I was there, I asked to talk to a manager for a donation for the benefit, I never pass up the opportunity to talk to someone as long as I am soliciting their business.  The mechanic, who had  asked about my Gold Star plates, listened in and once again offered his condolences.  After getting a fabulous rental secured, I was on my way. 

When I finally returned to pick up my vehicle, I didn't see the mechanic so I went to the window to pay.  The flyer's I had given the manager were already laminated and at the pay desk, the cashier was wearing the button I had given him.  Two of her relatives had served in Iraq and Afghanistan, so he thought she deserved to wear it.  The problem was, she couldn't find my key.  Just then, the mechanic came from behind, reprimanding me for not finding him first.  He told the cashier to reverse the charges on the credit card I had just paid with, over $230.  It was his way to thank me for my sacrifice, and I had ruined his random act of kindness. 

I was stunned, I guess I never get over that feeling.  As he walked me to my car he asked more questions about Curtis.  How could I thank him enough? 

I have been on the receiving end of such kindness for almost two years, and it never ceases to amaze me.  A card out of the blue letting me know I am being thought of, a call, the donations and gifts we receive, someone paying a bill.  How many ways can I say thank you?  When I said that to one of these givers, they only replied, "It is ME who needs to thank YOU!"  Fair enough, but it always brings a tear to my eye.

Thank you Dan.