Chapter 1: The Morning of Trials

It was a day that promised to be one of the most challenging of my life. With two significant exams on my schedule, I was feeling the pressure. The first exam would stretch for a grueling three hours, with no breaks allowed, followed by a brief intermission before a 1-hour and 15-minute second exam. Both assessments were undoubtedly the most difficult ones I had faced this year. How was I going to navigate through this?

I woke up at 5 AM, as was my routine, and hurried to Tesco, a popular UK store, to grab two 100% natural energy drinks—no sugar added—to help sharpen my focus. However, I was caught off guard when the cashier requested proof of my age.

In a panic, I dashed back home to grab my ID and raced back to the store. I was running out of time! After showing my ID and making my purchase, I hurried home, only to be met with an unexpected downpour.

As I was navigating the rain, I heard a voice calling from the other side of the street. A homeless man in a wheelchair was shouting for my attention.

Chapter 2: An Unexpected Encounter

What could he want? My mind raced as I thought about my impending exams. Against my better judgment, I crossed the road to see what he needed. As I approached, I was struck by two realizations: first, his leg was severely injured, twisted in a way that made it difficult to look at; second, his wheelchair was equipped with small wheels, making it impossible for him to maneuver independently.

"Can you help me?" he asked, seemingly in desperation.

I hesitated, feeling the weight of time pressing down on me. Yet, something pushed me to respond, "Sure."

"Where are you headed?" he inquired again, and I nervously replied, "Home."

When he asked if I lived near the Esso petrol station, I confirmed. "I’m going there too. Can you push my wheelchair?" he requested.

There I stood, contemplating whether to assist him or hurry to my exams. Ultimately, I realized that on my deathbed, I wouldn’t regret missing an exam, but I would regret ignoring someone in need.

So, I began to push his wheelchair. It was cumbersome and heavy, and I knew I was going to be late. As we navigated the bumpy road, he asked me to steer onto the street to avoid the rough pavement.

In that moment, I began to worry about my safety, envisioning scenarios where I could be in danger. Yet, I kept pushing, determined to help him despite my growing anxiety.

Chapter 3: Kindness in Action

After what felt like an eternity of pushing, he directed me to shelter under a small awning of a supermarket that was yet to open. "Thank you very much, brother," he said gratefully, and I replied, "You're welcome," before rushing back home to grab my exam materials.

In my haste, I forgot my phone but sprinted to the exam center, arriving breathless. To my surprise, many other students were also late, leading to a 30-minute delay for the exam.

I was incredibly fortunate!

After completing my first exam, my stomach grumbled in protest. I hadn’t eaten since the energy drinks. Glancing outside, I noticed my dad’s car parked nearby.

I dashed to the car, and to my delight, he had brought food! How had my luck turned so dramatically? After a quick bite and another energy drink, I headed back for my second exam.

As the second exam concluded, I felt a wave of relief wash over me—I had completed all my exams for the year! Summer vacation had officially begun, and I couldn’t be happier.

The experience may sound like a fictional tale, but it was entirely real. The moment I chose to help someone in need, everything fell into place for me. I am deeply grateful for that unexpected day.

Follow my journey here. If you’ve made it this far, I hope you enjoyed my story!