In the Midst of the 2006 Blizzard, One of Colorado's Good Samaritans

How often do we come across a Good Samaritan - one who offers his own time and capacity without expecting a thing in return?

My husband and I came across such a Samaritan today (December 21st 2006) and what could have been a time consuming and frustrating problem turned into a gift because what appeared to be an annoyance became a blessing in disguise and taught us a priceless life lesson. Instead of complaining about another in a long list of bad happenings, we realized that without our mistake we wouldn't have met the man that we did and we are exceedingly grateful.

...We had been driving around looking at the aftermath of a powerful blizzard that left highway's closed and school's shut down.

While stopping to take a photo of an impassable street, we became stuck - a bad call on our part as we know better than to stop when the drifts are so packed. We were close to home and my husband walked two blocks to our house where he picked up the shovel and returned to attempt a dig out. It was no use - the snow was heavy and packed beneath our Jeep. We saw a Fed-ex truck pass by us but it too became stuck.

Among this seeming irritation passed a young couple who pulled their small daughter on a sled; a touching scene even as they smiled at us and bid hello to their neighbors, one of which was playing in the snow himself.

In the distance we could see a few men coming out of their homes to assist the Fed-ex driver.

And while this was happening, my husband and I began to feel alone as people continued to pass us by.

And then, we heard a very spirited, friendly voice offering his aid. We turned and saw a smiling face approach us. He talked with my husband and motioned for his friend to drive close. Together, they managed to dislodge our Jeep by pulling it out of the drift.

And while this was happening we were laughing and talking. We found out that our Good Samaritan was from Alaska and without bragging he said that he loved helping people and had spent all day pulling other vehicles out of drifts or driving stranded motorists to where they needed to go. His jovial persona was infectious because he was so down-to-earth, warm and kind-hearted.

While most people stayed inside, this wonderful man was out in the cold, cheerfully helping where he could, without asking for anything in return.

And all I can think is that I wish there were more people like him...

Coming across this man was a gift in reminding me of how breathtaking the human spirit can be and this man's selfless echo will remain with me, reminding me of how I too can help and to do so willingly, not because I would seek accolades on my behalf, but because even one act of kindness on behalf of another can bring to light the beauty of life, and of humanity.