Hitching a Ride With Kindness - Blog
Hitching a Ride With Kindness
In today's world of uncertainty, and technology driven relationships, an incident happened yesterday that reinforced my belief in the goodness that exists in our fellow human beings. Having conducted and concluded a full day "No Excuse!"seminar training session, I was being transported in the middle of rush hour to the Orlando International Airport via a Mears Limousine, provided to me by the generosity of my client. Approximately 4 miles from the airport terminal the limousine decided it was too exhausted to transport any more people, and broke down in the right hand lane of Semoran Boulevard, a very high volume thoroughfare in Orlando.
In a state of severe concern, the driver immediately attempted to acquire assistance utilizing his cell phone, but to no avail. As I was pondering the predicament, and knowing that my flight was departing in the very near future, I realized that drastic measures might need to be taken. Having been informed that there were no taxicabs in the area, and that a replacement limousine might arrive after my scheduled departure, I made an Airborne/Ranger type decision, and decided to take matters into my own hands. I proceeded to exit the vehicle, obtain my luggage, and begin to flag down a potential "Good Samaritin". I was also screaming, "is anyone going to the airport?". Since the broken down limousine had stalled traffic, and had caused a severe backup; intially all I heard were beeping horns, offensive terminology, and observed inappropriate sign language. However, within several minutes a young couple heard my plea, proceeded to stop their vehicle, and offer their assistance. Seconds later, my bags were in their car, and I was on my way to the airport to catch my return flight to Albany. I am not sure if the limousine driver even knew I had gone, however, I did notice that he was still on his cell phone as we pulled away.
After a brief introduction and some small talk, my new driver mentioned he needed fuel. We briefly stopped, and because of his kindness, I offered to pay for a full tank. Although he declined my offer, I insisted, and shared with him that I felt it was the least I could do. Minutes after we departed the gas station, I was at the Southwest Terminal saying goodbye, and thanking this couple who extended a gesture of kindness, and went out of their way to assist someone in need. So hats off to Rudy and Arlene for their graciousness, thoughtfullness, and renewing belief that kindness is alive and well.
03.06.2008
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