We agreed and stepped back.
After inspection, it was determined that the alternator was failing. A black cap was missing, and sparks were flying. He mentioned that he had the exact truck, a Ford F150, but a year older. He offered to give us the alternator from his truck at no cost if it was the right fit. All we had to do was go with him to his house two miles away. My father agreed and we followed him to his house.
We arrived at his house and my brother, father, and the man all got to work. That Friday before, my mother had an insistent thought when loading up the truck: “Don’t forget the tool bag.” Those tools were needed to remove the old alternator, and, within a matter of minutes, the “new” alternator was installed. After starting the truck and using a meter to check the voltage, we were ready to go.
In exchange for payment, the only thing the man asked for was that we help another person. To pay back a good deed by being good to others.
It wasn’t until after we said our goodbyes and he wished us safe travels that we realized no names were ever exchanged. We don’t know the name of the man that God sent to help us, but we do know he was an instrument of God.
—Cyndi Tapia is the Greeley Lesem Pathfinder Club sub director. Photo supplied.
