One of the road trips I took while in college was to Falls Church, Virginia. I was visiting some new friends that I had made there the previous summer. The weather still permitted swimming and we took advantage of someone’s swimming pool. Good friends, good times, good vibes.

Until I jumped off the diving board and landed, ear first, into the foot of someone kicking against the water. I immediately felt the pain, lost a bit of hearing in my left ear, and knew that something was wrong. My friend and road trip partner took me to the emergency room where they offered drops of medicine and recommended rest. Our plans were kept to leave for home that afternoon.

We took the trip home as planned. We (he) drove the eight hours. And somehow, we found ourselves, 1 hour out of our hometown, in need. No gas, no money, and no way to get home. It was late and we were hesitant to call our family and asked for their help. My eardrum was perforated and causing my body pain. Enter the mystery man.

He overheard us asking the attendant if we might mail payment at a later date. He seemed interested, but he also seemed distant. I do not remember one thing about his appearance, but I remember his spirit. There was nothing about his approach, but there was something about his advice given after he paid for a few gallons of gas.

Just like everyone that has conned anyone out of “gas money”, we said we would mail him the money. Just like every sad story...