Tonight, something unexpected happened—and it left a lasting impression on my heart.

I was driving home when I saw those familiar blue lights flash in my rearview mirror. I pulled over, heart racing just a little, only to realize my tail light was out. I happened to stop in the parking lot of O’Reilly Auto Parts at Fairpark and Asher.

The officer approached my window. Calm. Respectful. He asked for my license and insurance. I handed them over without hesitation, and after a few minutes, he came back—having run my information—looked me in the eye, and said plainly:

“You’re good. I can tell you’re doing the right things.”

Then, instead of giving me a ticket or a warning, he said something I didn’t expect:

“Pull up to the front of the store and wait for me.”

I did as he asked, still unsure what was about to happen.

He walked into O’Reilly’s. A few moments later, he came out with red tail light tape—paid for out of his own pocket—and applied it right there to cover the busted light on my car. No lecture. No scolding. Just action, compassion, and care.

When I asked him what I owed him for the tape or his time, he simply replied:

“Just pray for me and for the other officers out here.”

And that’s exactly what I did. Right then and there, with tears quietly filling my eyes, I began to pray.

Officer Hutchins, thank you. Not just for sparing me the ticket, not just for fixing the light—but for reminding me that there are men and women in uniform who truly serve and protect. Who see us. Who care. Who go beyond their duty because their hearts are in the right place.

You didn’t have to do what you did. But you did. And I will never forget it.

To everyone reading this, I ask one small thing:
Tonight, when you rest your head, please lift up a prayer for Officer Hutchins—and for every officer in Little Rock and the surrounding areas who puts on that badge with the intent to do good.

Because sometimes, protecting and serving looks exactly like this:
A small act of kindness in a parking lot.
A stranger who didn’t walk away.
And a reminder that goodness is still alive in this world.

God bless you, Officer Hutchins. Stay safe out there. 💙