This blog is part of a series of 15 lessons based on the book “Lessons from the Geese” by Dr. Robert McNeish.
Sometimes people with disabilities are judged by their looks and actions. Noting that there might be a problem, the assumption is made that they don’t have much to offer. I had an experience early on that will improve that feeling and attitude.
I never knew his name, because as they say, “We were ships that passed in the night.” I taught special education courses in a college over a hundred miles from my home on a weekly basis for a few years. I had to leave early to be there on time. One morning as I drove, I took my foot off the gasoline peddle to apply the brakes. When I stepped on the gas peddle, it went all the way to the floor. Ahead were the lights of a service station. I managed to coast in. An attendant approached me, I was aware that he had some disability. I thought that I might not get the help I needed. After he asked me how he could help me, I explained the problem. He listened carefully and raised the hood. Finishing his evaluation, he walked into the garage and returned with a piece of wire. After a bit of working, he asked me to start the car and see if it worked. I did and it did.
With billfold in hand, I asked how much I owed him. He looked at me and said, “Nothin’! Put your money back in your pocket. I am just glad I had what it took to help you have a good day.”
Because of his poignant statement, I try not to tell people to have a good day unless I plan to do something about it.
 | Dr. Jim Pierson |
RSS Feed