I have just been heartened by the actions of a repair man who went out of his way to fix a recent problem with our heating system. Having made a call to the repair contractor, I was pleasantly surprised to get a same day visit from the engineer. However, the repair could not be completed that day due to the need to get some parts. The engineer came back and after some time, manage to fit the new part. However, on checking the system he noticed a leak that was not in the part of the system he had worked on.

The leak was very small – we had never noticed it before. Yet, this engineer went out of his way to ensure that it was repaired alongside the main problem, even though it meant another trip to my house and some very uncomfortable soldering.

He did not need to fix the leak – it wasn’t on the original scope. He could have left it for me to find at a future date – for another engineer to go crawling around to make the repair. But he didn’t – he wanted to ensure there was a satisfied customer – and there certainly is.

It made me think – how often do we turn a blind eye to something that we know is wrong? It’s not my job. It’s not that big. It’ll never be noticed. Someone else can deal with it. What if everyone behaved like that?

Or perhaps, what if everyone behaved like my gas engineer, going out of the way to resolve problems even before they become a big problem. Even if it means going out of our way. Beyond the call of duty. Where it might hurt, be uncomfortable. Surely the world would be a better place.

I once was a boy scout. I promised to do my duty to God and the King (Queen at the time), to help other people and keep the Scout Law.

Helping others is the backbone of a civilised race. It is the way we can play our part in society. It is giving, caring, loving. It’s something we can all do. Put the kettle on – check on a neighbour – help someone do the shopping. Big or small. Play a part. Show care. The reward is a job well done, a relationship strengthened, a needy person helped. Thank you. And ‘Thank You again’ to Matt for restoring our hot water and heating.