One More Call

I’m a tow operator, on my last call of the day.

Thinking of what’s for dinner, whistling as I go out the door on my way.

 

Pull up to the vehicle I’m going to tow, but don’t see the owner — not a good sign.

Check to see if the owner is around. No such luck. Call the number. Will be back in five — said that would be fine.

 

Waited and waited, 20 minutes go by.

Asking my myself, “now? Really? Why?

 

Owner shows up and throws me the key. Doesn’t say a word — not “hi”, “sorry,” or “here you go.”

I shake my head, hook up, and do the tow.

 

Check my watch — timing is not too bad. I can still get home to dinner with the family.

Communicate that I’m clear with dispatch, and start to pull away when I’m asked if I would take one more call – it would be appreciated — greatly.

 

Big sigh on my end. Such is the life of a tow operator — always — “can you take one more?”

Definitely not a 9-to-5 job. Hoping the family will understand — again — I’ll be late walking in the door.

 

Finally get back to the shop and the boss is there.

Says “thank you for taking another call. I appreciate the extra you do, and with care.”

 

She understands. Her thanks mean a lot. That’s what it’s all about.

Hands me a little something to take the family out for a treat. Nod my head, and finally punch out.

 

Thinking while I heat up my dinner plate, that sharing a special dessert with the family will be great.