The Wannabe Oil Change Professional

Mya's older cousin, Sam, didn't trust anyone after he had a bad experience with his doctor. So, he decided to begin doing everything on his own. He took care of his own medical health. He started making his own clothing. He even decided to take care of his vehicle, even though he had absolutely no mechanical experience. No matter how hard anyone tried to convince him of the absurdity of his extremism, he refused to listen.

"I know everyone is trying to help, but I have my mind made up," said Sam. "Those people could have killed me with the horrible medical care they gave me."

"I understand your fear and anger Sam, but I don't think the answer is to mistrust everyone, especially mechanics," said Mya. "I mean, there is so much that could go wrong with a car. I just don't think you can do repair and maintenance work on your own."

Sam turned to Mya.

"Well, I would have you know I have been studying pretty hard about taking care of vehicles and I am confident in my abilities," he said. "That's why for the first time in my life, I will be doing my own oil change."

"Sam, as your cousin and friend I don't know if I approve of that," she said.

"I love you Mya, but it really doesn't matter what you or anyone else thinks," he said. "I'm going to do my own oil change and it will be just as good as any professional work."

So, later that week Sam decided to change the oil. He used a step-by-step instruction manual he found on the internet. However, no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't seem to get the job done. Because of his pride, he wouldn't allow himself to call anyone for help or allow a professional to do it for him.

While he was still working on the oil change, Mya stopped by for an unexpected visit.

"Hey Sam, what are you up to?" she asked as she walked into the open garage where Sam was working.

"Oh, just doing this oil change," he said as he tried to hide the fact that he was having trouble.

"It's going pretty smoothly so far. I just have a few more steps left and I will be good to go."

"Cool, I'd love to watch," said Mya as she stood next to him looking over his shoulder. "What step are you on now."

Sam's confusion coupled with his great desire to hide his incapability caused him to do an even worse job than before. After several minutes of watching her cousin struggle, Mya just couldn't stand it anymore.

"Okay Sam, how about you go ahead and put the tools down," she said. "You don't have to pretend any longer. Let's go ahead to the auto shop so you can get a proper oil change."

After a few moments, Sam reluctantly agreed.

"Don't worry," said Mya. "I won't tell anyone."

They both laughed.