My auto mechanic, Mr. Hannibal, is an Albanian man in his early 60’s. He reminds me of Bruce, my Portuguese lobster boat captain. Besides looking like one another both have a no nonsense approach to life, their work, and keep conversation to as few precise words as possible. Both are the kind of man you trust because there is no bullshit and it is clear they are men of character.
A while back my bright yellow 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse developed an engine problem that led to every possible dashboard light to begin flashing and a snotty voice to emanate from somewhere deep in the dashboard, ‘Turn off the engine now dummy. Turn off the engine now dummy.” Mr. Hannibal explained the problem in detail and provided an estimate for the repair. I believe he saw me wince.
I delivered the car for its all day repair job. I retrieved the car later in the day and received the bill. The total was half the cost of the original estimate. Of course I asked about the bill and Mr. Hannibal said, “I know your situation. I charged you half, now just go, but buy your gasoline from me.” He semi-smiled and we shook hands.
Yesterday I stopped at his station to fill up. When I started the car I saw Mr. Hannibal walking to the car. He leaned in the window to say hello at which time I thanked him again and asked, “Mr. Hannibal is there anything I can do for you?” His answer was, “Just be a good man.” He smiled and said goodbye.
What he said threw me for a second and I have thought about this interaction for 24 hours now. What a meaningful and powerful thing to say. I’m 73 and it made me examine my thoughts and behaviors. I can’t imagine what his words would mean to a young or middle aged man. It was a marvelous interaction. And something I want to remember to say to other men. A fantastic reminder of how to be.
Just be a good man.
Buddhas Live in the Strangest Places
What a wonderful story and lesson for a troubled time.
Mr. Hannibal is a kind gentleman and model for us all!