Life's Lessons

My car steadily raced along the 401 as I spoke out loud, preparing myself for my first interview since graduation. Visions of a possible hip and trendy urban life danced in my head as I imagined taking the subway to work, making friends and kicking my heels off in my tiny apartment after a long day at the office. I was nervous and so excited. I felt all those dreams come to a complete halt as my car sputtered and did the same.  

Not only was my car broken down, so were my spirits. After applying to dozens of ‘big girl’ jobs with only one interview booked, I did the only thing there was to do at that moment. I cried.

I was only on the side of the highway for about a minute before a silver minivan pulled up behind me. How relieving, someone was going to take a few minutes out of their busy day to help. In today’s fast paced and self-centered society, even this small gesture seemed too good to be true.

Two young women approached me. I explained the story through my tears, a little embarrassed about my emotional state. I expected nothing but a safe ride off the highway or maybe a little mechanical advice. To my surprise, this busy single mother and her friend actually offered to give me a ride to my interview! I was hesitant to accept, as this was more than a small favour. My interview was on the west side of Toronto and my car had stalled in Guelph. Despite the fact they had no intention of heading to Toronto that day, they insisted on getting me to the interview.

After spending some time with Kelly Gosse, Lori Gallipeau and her young son, through rush hour traffic, it was apparent that this random act of kindness was not unusual for these two. They were bright exuberant young women who dedicate their lives to helping others. How unusual to meet two individuals who put each other and even me, a complete stranger, before themselves.

 I made it to my interview with five minutes to spare. Lori and Kelly drove away, wishing me luck , as I bid them fare well and hoped that against all odds, the 3PM traffic wouldn’t be too bad. It was.

            Lori, a single mother of three, and Kelly, a spiritual healer and all time best friend, asked nothing more from me but to pay it forward. I didn’t get the job that day, but what I did gain was a restored faith in humanity and a couple of new friends, just as I had dreamed of that morning.