Are you okay?

Accidents happen, that why we have insurance. And with the mass of cars and vehicles out there, it's just a matter of time before you get into one. Thank God for the times when I've had accidents recently, it's just been the car with the damage, and everyone involved is okay.

Those were the thoughts that was running through my mind when my 3-month old brand-spanking new car got T-boned the other day, side curtain airbags going off. Oh my God, what if my kids were in the car? Oh my God, what if there was a kid in the street between the two cars? On my God, what if there was a baby in the other car, not wearing a seat belt?

After that initial shock and stress, of course, then it came it to my car, and all of the random thoughts associated with material possessions, hassle, etc. Through this all, a little boy walked out from the other vehicle, couldn't have been more than 10 years old, carrying a little notepad to write stuff down. And he says in the most quiet and caring voice, "Are you okay?"

I think he stunned me a bit, by saying that. Usually, people are cussing and swearing and pissed off, and I admit I had some feelings like that, especially not really understanding who was at fault. But, when the little guy said "Are you okay?" it sort of hit my reset button. I calmed down tremendously and said as humanely as possible, "I'm okay, are you okay?" And the little guy said, "Yes, I'm okay."

I think there's a lot to learn here from this, something profound in the simplicity of a child who's initial reaction should be commonplace, but so often isn't in this era of blame, guilt, and accountability. Finances, time, stress, and all don't really matter as much as the simple question, "Are you okay?"

Thank you, my little friend, for you patience, compassion, and kindness. I pray for you, that you find strength always as you did here. You taught me a little something about how to live life right, and how to be a better person with 3 simple and timely words.