"They pressed into service a passer-by, Simon, a Cyrenian, who was coming in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to carry his cross." - Mark 15:21
Matthew, Mark and Luke all note that, at one point, a man named "Simon" (different from Peter) helped Jesus carry the cross. However, it doesn't appear this Simon did it willingly - each write in a way that indicates Simon was made to do it by the soldiers following Jesus.
While not supported directly by the Gospels (or by further New Testament books), tradition holds that Alexander and Rufus were early Christian missionaries. And this would make some sense, given how Mark openly "shouts out" to the two of them - since the addition provides no greater clarity to the scene. It would appear then, that their father Simon learned something along the way. Something that, after he left Jesus, he brought back to his sons. Something that compelled his sons to become evangelists in a time that was openly hostile to Christianity.
In short, by Simon literally taking up the cross with Jesus, we learn how such a short time spent with Him can be so impactful. Jesus was tired, weary, beat and bloodied. But his mission continued on, so much so that Simon believed in who he was, and who he was here for.
We too can do the same - by helping others, we walk in their shoes - we take a part of their burden, and in turn learn about their struggles, hopes and fears. While reluctant, Simon carried the cross with Jesus. And by the end, he had changed - he and his family were followers of Jesus.
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