Positive NO

On my usual after-lunch walk, I noticed one of my car tires was flat. What happened? I went to the auto repair shop (2 blocks away) asking if I could borrow a hand pump to put air into the tire to drive it over. The guy at the shop told me NO, they don’t have a hand pump. I asked if he or somebody could come with me to take a look. He said NO and suggested I call the roadside assistance to swop the backup tire. I walked away disappointed and decided to try a second shop (bigger and 3 blocks away). The guy there answered similarly, NO hand pump and suggested me to call the roadside assistance.

I went home, called the car insurance, and fortunately a guy showed up in a little over an hour and swopped the tire. A big nail stuck in. I called the first auto shop asking if they can repair the tire. The guy who answered the phone apologized that they’re busy today and suggested me either go to the second shop or come after tomorrow. I’m surprised that he recommended a “competitor”.

I called the second shop which was to close in half an hour. The guy who answered the call told me they probably wouldn’t be able to fix it today but suggested me to come and ask for Andrew. If the tire is repairable, I could leave it at the shop and pick it up later. Therefore I went…I asked for Andrew but Nick (looked like a supervisor) showed up. I showed him the tire and asked if they could repair it now/ I’d wait. I didn’t have high hope as the shop would close in 20 minutes and 2 other people were waiting. I’m surprised that he said yes. He drove the car into the garage and called a young guy.

It was warm and sunny. I had been working from home for 6+ months now due to Covid yet it’s the first time to stand outside and let sun, air embrace me…

Looking back, many to thank…not only on the helps I received but also the lucky NO (not) I got. First, the tire did NOT blow up while I was driving or the consequence could be much more serious. Second, both shops told me NO on hand pumps or I might ruin the tire or get into trouble while driving with a flat tire. Third and more importantly, both shop staffs showed the power of positive NO. They told me no while offering alternatives / possibilities (first stop recommended others, second shop willing to accommodate though it’s a small job and at the shop closing time). I’m “happy” to spend the $25 for repair and I would go back/ recommend either shop to people.