In the process of exposing auto repair scams, I have received some hate mail. Most of these claim that I am crazy or paranoid, or that I have no idea what I am talking about. Others involve ranting more generally.
One, however, said that I was a scammer. Essentially, this person thinks I am using scam tactics to sell e-books that expose scam tactics.
Here is a small sampling of the facts I have been stating:
- 98% of all repair shops are abusing auto repair pricing guidelines.
- Repair scams cost consumers an estimated $40 billion each year
- Repair shops top consumer complaint lists every year
In response to this accusation, I wrote a nice long email explaining my position, my background, and how I got my information. I also wrote how I can understand one’s skepticism about such claims, and referenced numerous articles and websites for supporting documentation.
However, I was unable to send the email because the sender address was false. That’s frustrating! I have no qualifications with the accusations, but please stand up and present your case. Don’t leave a bag of dog shit on my porch, ring the doorbell, and then walk away.
I appreciate how I understand its value. I am willing to listen. Calling me a scammer only insults me and my mission…So what would Jesus do?
To find out what Jesus would do, I am going to try an analogy between my mission and that of Jesus.
Jesus was making (to the ears of most first-century Jews) outrageous claims. At the same time, others were amazed at his work.
I have been making outrageous claims (to some people’s ears) while at the same time impressing many others.
So far so good….
The Jews argued that Jesus was using the power of the devil to perform his miracles (casting out demons, healing the sick…etc.).
According to the “scammer” email, I am using the power of scam tactics to expose auto repair scams.
Before proceeding, the obvious logical flaw in the above accusation should be pointed out. Jesus said it best: “A house divided against itself cannot stand.”
But what would Jesus do about the prevalence of auto repair scams?
In short, Jesus would go for the throat. He would directly point out injustice and then pierce the hearts of those who rip people off with excessive auto repair prices.
Jesus’ example was followed by his right-hand man, Peter. Peter also made “scandalous” claims like Jesus being the son of God…etc. Peter had been very irritating the religious authorities. When they told him to stop, he essentially said, “Bite me… in a nice way.”
I will also be kind to my opposition.
To skeptics, I would suggest they listen to the words of Gamaliel, a first-century Jew and teacher of the law: “a man honored by all the people.” In response to the “scandalous” claims of the apostles, Gamaliel said:
“… Leave these men alone! Let them go! Because if their purpose or activity is of human origin, they will fail. But if it is of God, they will not be able to stop these men; they will only find themselves.” fighting against God.
Time will tell what RepairTrust’s mission will produce. What I do know is that since its inception it has saved auto repair customers tens of thousands of dollars in auto repair costs. Unless I get news, I’ll stay the course.