Everyday I try to read two newspapers to obtain a diverse view on the world as it unfolds around us. Rarely do you see a compelling, personal, feel good, local story in both journals. Yesterday (8/06)afternoon was that infrequent exception.
Just after lunch, I ventured onto the Lake Cook Road overpass bridge of the Metra line to ease my mind from the daily strains accumulated from a taxing workload. An announcement came over the loudspeaker that the northbound train was running seven minutes late. I decided to wait in anticipation of its arrival because I love trains.
The article in that mornings paper alluded to granting a Make-A-Wish train ride for ten year old Christopher Chappell(blinded by an incurable disease) to actually pilot the train. He said the best part of the day was honking the horn. How many of us never realize our dream, when we’re still alive?
Anyway as this late #409 northbound train arrived at the Lake Cook station, I noticed a southbound nearly identical train also approach. Then the magic happened! As I also read that the same train operated by Christopher was named "Ollie" after Oliver Tibbles who died before his wish was granted. His namesake train is the only one named after a child.
I looked to this second train as it passed within three feet of me, right there on the locomotive was displayed #401 Oliver "Ollie" Tibbles. My heart stopped and beat proudly.
I was humbled, I felt honored, and I was touched. Why was I there at that moment on a fluke?
It gets you to wonder how mankind can bridge time and stay on track to meet challenges and live dreams.
How your dream may or may not come to fruition while you’re alive or ever…or maybe even after you pass, you may not ever realize that elusive dream, but others will thrive on your initial effort!
Submitted by Anonymous
We've all had people in our lives who have made a positive impact on us. A parent or grandparent, a sibling who was there for us, or maybe even just a guy who shines shoes for a living? Whoever they are, tell us their story so they can inspire us even more.
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