The last few days have reminded me that there is more good in the world than bad.  Times of chaos bring out the worst in some, however, the best in the majority of those surrounding us all.  I witnessed so many helping complete strangers in need…all because of the goodness in their heart. This was a defining moment for so many.

For me, my main focus was the safety of my children and those in my care. After two hours of traveling 5 miles to pick up my son (and two friends whose parents frantically tried to get to their child but could not because of accidents and road closures), I reached them and attempted to drive another 5 miles home. I quickly realized that there was really only one way in…and no way out. After several failed attempts of trying to get to our destination, I panicked when I saw several cars, trucks and school busses trying to pass over a bridge and slide down a large hill toward a ravine. I quickly determined this was not going to be our destiny and skidded into and got stuck in ,what I will refer to, my angels’ driveway.

After 30 minutes of trying to unsuccessfully get out of the hilly driveway, I gave in and knocked on the door with tears in my eyes.  A kind woman with her baby grandson answered the door and told me not to worry…to come in, get warm and relax for a while. She said her husband would be home soon to help us. My son, his two friends and I came in and tried to make a plan.

Watching more and more cars and school busses sliding down the hill, I grew more concerned that I was not going to get home.  And so we waited…Once her husband arrived, he was unsuccessful in getting us “unstuck,”  too.  We were now really stranded.  I finally broke down crying…I was so upset knowing the children were my responsibility and I could not get them safely home.  My newest angel, gave me a hug, said that it would be alright, and offered us to spend the night if we needed.  We were welcomed in their home, complete strangers in the storm.

I discussed options with our newest friends…and I was able to make a plan with another parent to attempt to meet us and that we would start walking once they could get to a safe place. We were too far to walk all the way home in the blistering cold (especially with my very stylish high-heeled boots) and complete darkness. We waited for their call.

Our angels provided us with caring compassion, warmth and shelter in the time of greatest need. They served us cocoa, coffee and even started to make us dinner. We played with her “energetic” grandson, laughed and learned more about the nearly 45 years they have been married. He, a Veteran and retired truck driver. She, originally from Dayton,Ohio, and mother. Together, they raised two wonderful children, and now have three handsome grandsons, all of which, they are so proud and thankful to God. Their home was filled with comfort and love. We all felt as if we were at “home.”

A parent and kind neighbor finally reached us to deliver us safely home…8 hours after our journey began.  We almost didn’t want to leave.  We all hugged, praised God, said our thanks and climbed into our ride home.

Yes.  There is so much good in the world.  There are angels among us. Tuesday affirmed this when I felt there was no way out, God provided us with an angel. Complete strangers who have now become dear friends.