The Unmentioned

As I was pulling out of the parking lot to go home from work today, my manager, John, ran out towards my car, flagging me down by waving his arms wildly in the air.

I thought I might be in some sort of trouble; it turns out that I was, but not quite the kind of trouble that I had in mind.

My car's left rear wheel was flat and practically ready to blow out on me.

I backed up, and parked again, frustrated. I had no idea how to change a tire, and I needed to get home in order to look after my sisters. Unfortunately, home was several miles away, and I knew I wouldn't be able to get a ride from either of my parents at that time of day. It was looking like I might have to walk -- which is really dangerous, considering that I have to practically walk right on Route 30 in order to reach my house from work. I've done it before, but only in times of dire need, because I really don't like having to share a road with oncoming traffic (see, there are some places where there is no sidewalk or alternative route to take).

My boss, being the nice and genuine fellow that he is, though, simply wouldn't have it. He put all of his work in the restaurant on hold and gave me a hands-on lesson in changing a tire, even explaining some little things that make it safer and easier to do. Under his direction, I had my car's little donut wheel on in no time, and I was on my way -- possibly saved from either of two life-threatening situations: walking Route 30, or driving on a bad tire.

Anyways, I just wanted to give him some kind of proper recognition for his help. I guess I could have been overreacting, but some aspects of cars and driving really make me nervous; this was no exception. I'm truly thankful that I have people like him to watch out for me.