Roadside angels in Matthews left before man can say ‘thanks’

This letter is intended for three kind and brave gentlemen who came to rescue me when I was in terrible distress. This incident happened when I was on my way home from Pineville on I-485 carrying a heavy load of metal roofing material in a pickup truck.

As I came up to the Idlewild Road exit, the load suddenly shifted and fell out of the truck bed after breaking the tie-down rope. The load was too heavy for any one person to lift and place it back in the truck – much less for an 83-year-old man like me. I was at a loss for what to do.

Then you two showed up and together lifted the load back onto the truck bed with much effort and persistence. After that, you left the scene before I had a chance to say “thank you.” I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude now.

I promise that I will relay the same kindness to others if the opportunity presents itself.

I would also like to thank the police officer from the Matthews Police Department for being there promptly to control the traffic … and for trying to assist with the load.

God bless all of you for your kindness and professionalism. Because of these kind and thoughtful Samaritans, this world seems to have become a better place for me and for all of us.

Ray Saito, Matthews

This story was originally published May 17, 2016 at 2:50 PM with the headline "Roadside angels in Matthews left before man can say ‘thanks’."