Two nights ago, I found myself and my passenger stranded on the Long Beach Freeway. There was an accident earlier and all of the pieces from the accident had not been removed from the freeway. I could see the flares had burned down to low flames. I was watching and I still don’t know where the piece came from that obliterated my tire in less than three seconds.

Mountains are not flat and neither is life. We have our ups and we have our downs. We have our negative experiences and we have our positive experiences. I want to talk about the positive experiences that were created out of a daunting experience.

I am immensely grateful that my passenger was patient, calm, and understanding. I spent over an hour on the phone with the road assistance service and was underwhelmed. My faith was restored when a phenomenal human being named Brian Rosales of City Tow Service came to tow my car. He was very kind and went out of his way to help me. Instead of towing my car to the nearest Just Tires in Long Beach, which would’ve left me stranded there, he towed me all the way to Los Angeles. He parked my car at the Just Tires on Beverly Boulevard and gave me a ride home.

I may not have shown it, but I was extremely overwhelmed and have been for a few days. I have never, in the 42 years that I’ve lived in Los Angeles, been stranded on the freeway, but I have called 911 every time I saw a disabled vehicle. They should know my number by now… Lol.

As we rode from Long Beach to Los Angeles, Brian and I had a deep conversation. I shared my experiences with him, and he felt comfortable enough to share his experiences with me. We have a lot in common, including the passing away of immediate family members. I felt a sense of calm with Brian and I was so grateful that he came to my rescue. He definitely restored my faith in the kindness of the human spirit. Brian has been through tremendous hardships, but he has developed into a empathetic and caring human being. It was nice to be on the receiving end of his compassion.

Thank you, Brian!! You were a lifesaver that night, more than you will ever know. I appreciate your kindness and your willingness to help me. I am grateful that you felt comfortable enough with me to share your story. I want you to know that you are an outstanding person, father, son, brother and friend. It is an honor to know you. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!