Short Stories

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C O M M O N S E N S E: “Big Red”

Rev. Charles E. Posey
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Once upon a time or so the story goes, a young man grew old in the service of his city. For thirty-five years he had worked in the Roads and Sanitation Department of New York City.

“10, 20, 30 years, where has the time gone?” Big Bill wondered as he strolled through the truck garage on his way to his retirement party.

“Yes, time sure ‘nough flies when you are having fun.” Little Bill remarked. “What are you going to do with your new life now Bill?”

“My wife never liked the city; couldn’t stand the snow, so we've made arrangements to move down south in a small town in Alabama. You know, that’s where she’s from.” He answered almost mournfully.

“Well, enjoy yourself.” Little Bill replied counting his steps in the back of his mind as he escorted Big Bill to the party.

Passing by the grand old lady one more time, Bill stopped, eased his hand out of his pocket and brushed her hood one more time. “I wonder what will become of you.” He sighed.

Little Bill spoke before he thought. “She’s headed to retirement too. I read it on the sheet five weeks ago. She’s due for the cutting torch.”

“No!” Bill shot back shocked by the news.

“I guess they didn’t want you to know. Sorry, Bill”

“That’s all right. I knew it would happen someday, but I guest I didn’t expect it so soon. She was such a fine lady. There wasn’t a street in New York City she couldn't handle; no snow to deep, no pile too high. Two tons of salt for balance and away we would go. Now, both of us are headed to our own retirement fields.”

“I’ve got an idea Bill.” Little Bill fired back. “Why don’t you buy her?”

“Now what would I do with a snow plow in Alabama? Better yet, how would I get it down there without my wife knowing?” Big Bill ques-tioned.

“She’ll be sold for scrap. You buy her and I’ll keep her for you until you can find away to get her down there.” He replied eagerly.

“Now that sounds like a deal.” Big Bill answered. “Lets get to that party!”

So for next five years, Big Bill visited his good friend annually until he had moved his the grand old lady, piece by piece, bolt by bolt down to Alabama.

Then one night there came a howl at the door. The northern wind had met a southern storm and snow inundated the south. From Memphis to Birmingham, Atlanta to Savannah, and all across the Carolinas the south came to a screeching halt. Fear beset the people as all the roads chocked with stalled cars and trapped drivers. Police and emergency crews everywhere felt helpless as the snow mounted and the calls for help came in.

But suddenly there was came a shrill voice from a well worn whistle. Big Red was on the road again!

COMMON SENSE SAYS: God still has good use for old things. He just needs them in the right place at the right time.

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