By Frank J. Buchman
“There are lots of things worse than a flat tire.”
That’s certainly true, but it sure didn’t seem so after a recent blowout.
Nobody likes changing flats, obviously, and the thought even makes us cringe.
Much more observant of tire pressure, rotations, balancing, uneven wear than we used to be. Appointment was being set to get the tasks done, since the car drove a bit rough.
Nearly two-thirds the way home, foot heavy on the pedal, it happened. Just went flat without much strain on the wheel, surprising us as we glanced to the idiot light for verification.
Gadget indicated the left rear was caput, as we pulled far into the grass off the interstate. Inner confidence building required to just open the car door as drivers zoomed by at seemingly record speed.
That dash light lied, because it was the right front with unrepairable damage. Assessment initiated attempt to call for roadside assistance, the hometown garage, anybody to help a lazy cowboy. Pocket phone’s been undependable, and completely dead when we needed it bad.
Groaning loudly, with perhaps morally unrepeatable reference under breath, hopes this time were to see a patrolman. Thick as fleas typically, none were anywhere now.
Giving in to fact, trunk opening began ordeal. Car’s six years old, more than 100-grand odometer, spare bubble and jack still smelled new, tightened to trunk floor.
Long unscrewing freed that little round black blob, with more resistance from the jacking contraption. When it freed, the wrench, jack and handle remained secured as one, requiring manual directions from the glovebox.
Task still became more complex, while unable to remove hubcap, and incapable of securing jack under car.
Close to an hour, and none of the jillion-plus passing cars offered assistance. Finally, a helpful couple stopped.
Feeling pressure relief, the congenial pair assured it’d be easy fix. Sure enough, what’d been undoable for us, they soon had the tiny tire secure for us to limp home.
Believe it or not, a sheriff came from one considerate 911-informant. Most appreciative, and again blessed during a predicament, our gratitude’s were and are abundantly plentiful.
New tires are cheap compared to one flat tire.
Reminds us of First Kings 8:38: “When disasters strike, calamity of any sort, hands and arms are thrown out to help, and go to work.”
+++ALLELUIA+++
