Today's lesson (and others to follow) is grounded in the belief that you and I are not the only people on the road. I know, it's a shockingly alien concept for some.
This lesson is also about the social lubricant that makes civilized life possible: reciprocity. You know, treating others as you would like to be treated. You don't want clueless, self-centered drivers clogging the road ahead? Then start by not being one yourself. That means being aware of traffic behind you and giving a rat's ass about it.
So there you are, first in line at a red light. What should you do when the light turns green?
Go, right?
Yes, but in what way?
If there's little traffic, it doesn't matter much. But if there's a line vehicles behind you (you know this because you use your mirror for something other than checking your own wonderfulness) then it's time (once again) to offend those who preach the gospel of gradual acceleration. Step on it. Move out with gusto so more drivers can make it through the light.
This is particularly true if you're in a left turn lane. (Let us pause a moment to give thanks for properly constructed left turn lanes with adequately timed signals.) You know those jerks who keep turning left even after their light has turned red? It's usually the result of slow pokes at the head of the line. (That doesn't mean I condone running red lights, just that I understand.)
Of course, all of this assumes traffic isn't so thick and the lights so badly timed that there's no room for you or anyone else on the other side of the intersection. Then it's time for zen-like patience, even if those behind you honk. But once there is room, GO!
Until next time, pull your head out of your butt, put down the phone, and drive like you mean it.
Well, some people are waiting for a shade of green that they like. Others own the road. And still others live unconscious lives.
I'm convinced many of our war deaths in recent times are the resukt of this last group.
Posted by: Richard Reiser | 04 July 2009 at 15:44
Like spelling "result" with a "k."
Posted by: Richard Reiser | 04 July 2009 at 15:45