I was feeling kind of weepy anyway. I don't know why. It could have been the frustrating day at the office, a post-Christmas crash, or some hormone do-si-do.
I was on my way home from work, running an errand for my daughter on Telegraph Ave. There were two parking places right around the corner from my destination. I put on my right turn signal, pulled up close to the curb, and backed right into a car that had come up behind me while I was rejoicing in my parking karma.
I rolled down my window and braced myself. I was sure an angry person was going to jump out of the wronged vehicle and yell at me, maybe even call me a nasty name. I felt tears welling up as I held the steering wheel firmly at the ten and two position.
The car behind me went into reverse, then pulled up alongside me. I turned my head toward the lowering window and offered simply, "I'm so sorry."
The man inside said, "It's no big deal. I thought you were turning right..."
I apologized again and stupidly mumbled something about trying to park. He smiled and assured me there was no harm done. I thanked him and tried not to burst into tears as he drove away.
Now if he had yelled at me, I probably would have cried too. But this way, I don't feel quite as stupid, and my view of the world is definitely sunnier.
So, thank you, kind man who didn't berate me for backing into your car. Thank you for restoring my faith in humanity. It may have been a small gesture on your part, but it meant the world to me.
For more of my musings on life, read For Words: tanyagrove.wordpress.com.
