We had a Happy New Year's Day - until the rain came.
Slightly before 6 p.m. my wife, our daughter and I were driving south on Ospika Boulevard beginning up the hill leading to Tyner Boulevard.
Knowing that the roads were becoming very slippery, all three of us began muttering about the wisdom of choosing this route.
While traffic was not heavy, we were concerned to see what appeared to be several vehicles up the hill ahead of us--stopped. Soon enough, one, then two sets of back-up lights came on. Within seconds we stopped, found we could get no traction to proceed, attempted to back down in hope of finding purchase at the side of our lane - and became stuck in heavy, wet, somewhat deep snow.
My daughter attempted to push; that was futile. Then the five heroes appeared beside us, standing in the rain which had now turned heavier.
The five young gentlemen pushed and dug and grunted and offered clear, intelligent directions to me, the hapless driver. Only one of the lads appeared dressed for the weather and the job at hand.
Two fellows, I guessed, had just come from working out at UNBC's gymnasium; one capless lad was wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt, knee-length shorts and unlaced running shoes. Not one of our assistants displayed irritation, impatience or anger in the steady rain.
A sanding truck rolled by (abundant blessings on all drivers of those service vehicles this season). And soon we were free - shouting our "thank yous."
There was no time on these wet icy roads to risk a stop to get names or addresses or phone numbers.
Gentlemen, thanks heartily for your timely generosity, your strength and your good spirits. You were a gift in a nasty situation.
Paul and Sylvia Swennumson and daughter Erin
Prince George
