While waiting for a light on the Truxtun Extension Friday morning, I noticed a woman getting out of her car to talk to the person in the car behind her. Was it an altercation? Had they been in an accident? Then men from two other cars got out and walked towards the woman’s car, compounding the mystery. 

Suspense evaporated into relief as I watched the woman’s car effortlessly gliding through the intersection, propelled by multiple bodies. It turns out that the woman’s car had died on her in morning traffic. Surrounding drivers actually hopped out of their own cars to help move her car. The entire feat was even accomplished before cross traffic became delayed.

As I drove on, I was struck by this example of generosity and Christmas spirit. Yet if the same problem had presented itself at any other time of year, I’m sure people would have been just as selfless and helpful. Still, I’m harboring this manifestation of humanity as part of the season’s charm — and I’ll think of it fondly throughout the year.