Abiding by the Side of the Road
Ran an errand today a little behind schedule. New shit had come to light, as it often does.
Then the old ride, a 30 year old shitbox I maintain more as a lifestyle choice than anything, cast radiator fluid upon the windshield with considerable vigor. My son was with me. So I pulled onto the grass, set the hazards, popped the hood, and took it easy for all us sinners.
The little dude had questions. I told him the engine was overheating, explained coolant, radiators, circulation, pressure, and the general ins and outs of keeping a machine from losing its composure. We located a crack near the top of the radiator, had hoped for just a bad cap, but it is what it is.
We topped it off with water anyhow, rolled a ways, stopped again, rolled some more, and eventually made it home in our own time. No need to be uptight. The car abides until it doesn’t, and then you abide with it.
During the pauses we talked basketball, listened to tunes, and enjoyed the slow lane the universe had selected for us. No frustration necessary. Just the next indicated thing.
Now the wounded chariot rests in the driveway, and I’m enjoying a cocktail while contemplating a radiator swap tomorrow. The bums may always lose, but a calm driveway, cold beverage, and an honest repair still count for something.
Sometimes Dudeism is not found on a cushion or a mountaintop. Sometimes it’s found beside the road with the hood up, teaching your kid how things work, accepting the delay, and keeping your mind limber.
The Dude abides, even with a cracked radiator.