Yesterday reminded me of the good in people. I was driving to Walter Reed Military Hospital for a check-up when my front left tire blew out on Interstate 495.
I’m pretty handy with cars, so I figured I could change it myself—even though it was cold and the lug nuts were really tight. I had the car jacked up and had taken off a few bolts when a car suddenly pulled over in front of me.
A man got out, and I noticed right away that he had an artificial leg. He said he recognized me and wanted to lend a hand. We talked for a bit, and he told me he lost his leg in Afghanistan while working there as a civilian.
Then he grabbed the lug wrench and finished the tire change while I packed up the tools. We both had appointments at Walter Reed, so we rushed off after that. I didn’t catch his name or info, but he did ask for a selfie. Later that night, he sent me this message:
“Gen. Powell, I hope I never forget today because I’ll never forget reading your books. You were always an inspiration, a leader and statesman. After 33 years in the military, you were the giant whose shoulders we stood on to carry the torch and now it’s tomorrow’s generation who must do the same. —Anthony Maggert”
Thank you, Anthony. You truly touched my heart and reminded me of what this country is all about. We need less yelling and more helping. You really made my day.
Credit to the respective owner~