I’ve always been the sister who says “yes,” the one who drops everything when family needs help. It’s how I was raised—and maybe my biggest weakness. I never imagined that my generosity could cost me a life-changing job opportunity.
Three months ago, I had surgery and was ordered to take a full month off—no driving, no work, just rest. Two days into my recovery, my sister Kathy called in a panic. Her car’s transmission had broken down, and the repairs would cost thousands she couldn’t afford. She asked to borrow my Honda until hers was fixed.
I didn’t hesitate. I wasn’t driving anyway, and she’s my sister. For four weeks, she used it daily. She even gave me a ride to a doctor’s appointment once, joking it was a “win-win.” I trusted her to care for the car, and she promised she would.
When she returned my keys the night before my big interview at Morrison & Associates—a job I’d been chasing for months—I felt a sense of relief. After three months without income, this interview was crucial. I laid out my outfit, polished my résumé, and planned my route.
The next morning, I got in the car full of hope—only for the engine to sputter and die. I tried again. Nothing. Confused, I called Kathy. She admitted she had returned it on an empty tank, assuming I’d “take care of that.” I reminded her about the interview I’d mentioned all week. Her response? “Just call a rideshare.”
