It is one of those surprising memories. College certainly brings countless memories but this one is unique, unexpected and totally irreplacable.
After a long day of classes and work, I sat in the cafeteria eating supper, thinking about that evening's agenda. The background noise of multiple conversations, laughter, dishes gathered and doors opening and closing seemed quite normal. I didn't even notice my friend approaching my table.
"Hey, Terri, what are you doing after supper?" Startled, I responded with "Oh, the usual...study, study, study." "Well," he replied, "do you think you could help us?" I couldn't imagine what was needed. My friend was a disciplined, kind and hardworking young man who would not request help unless it was very important. I curiously asked what was wrong as I noticed the concerned look on his face.
"You can pop a clutch, can't you?" Now he had my full, undivided attention! I could certainly do that but it wasn't something people asked me very often. "Sure, why do you need me?" He explained that he and his friends were repairing his car. Now they simply needed someone to drive the car while they pushed it down the parking lot, pop the clutch and hope the engine troubles were resolved. "Ohhhh...sure!! I'll be right there." I often wonder why they approached me of all people on campus. My car was a manual transmission but I was surprised and delighted to be asked to help.
Within minutes, I was sitting in the driver's seat of my friend's car. As I looked in the rearview mirror, I saw what any single gal would only dream of seeing on that campus. Several guys were holding onto the car, running furiously behind me and watching me intensely! (hahaha) Returning to reality, the window was now down so I could hear any further instructions. Soon they gave me the signal...and down the parking lot we went. Imagine our delight as that car engine roared at the very first "pop of the clutch!" We were thrilled. It took a team to make that happen. I had the easy...and fun...part. The guys were pushing, sweating...and giving their best. And together, it worked!
Reflecting on that fun time, I can't help but wonder how much we are willing to help others on life's journey...with enjoyment, enthusiasm, cooperation and determination. Oh, most of us claim we should do that. Some would even begin listing all that they do. But when it gets down to the messy, unpleasant, consistent and not so fun commitment-in-action, how many of us are willing to encourage, listen, support, care and sacrifice for others?
The guys and I could have stood by that car and "preached at it" all night long. But it was the enduring effort that got the work done. They thanked me repeatedly for helping. However, I was the one who was blessed for being asked to simply "pop a clutch." It was a memory I will always cherish. For working together to help each other brought great rejoicing in the end. And I will take that over mere words...every time!<3~thl
"If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." Philippians 2: 1>4
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