skidmark
12-23-2004, 12:07 PM
Christmas 2004
Which gifts would I like to see under my tree this year, and which gifts would I like to leave there for other drivers? That's a tough question if one stops to think about it carefully and honestly. If I could only be so lucky as to have the chance!
For myself, I would like to have the patience to always deal with drivers politely and respectfully when they are anything but that at the side of the road. I know that it is impossible to leave everyone with a smile on their face, but it would be nice to at least have them understand that what happened was a consequence of their behaviour. If I could have this, then the next person I deal with wouldn't face a grumpy constable either!
For others, I would also like to give the gift of patience. I see so many drivers today who seem to say "I'm important, you are not. I'm in a hurry, get out of my way!" with their driving. Our highways must be shared equally in order to be safe. Driving is a partnership, not a contest.
As I write this, I am a bit surprised that I have chosen the same gifts for everyone. Should I be? It seems lately that I am often considering that I am in too much of a hurry or feeling pressed for time. Are those extra seconds I save by taking a risk or being tempted to drive too fast worth the safety of myself and the others I am sharing the road with? Almost always, the answer is no. I can choose for myself, but I cannot choose for others, so I must choose safety for us all.
On behalf of Vancouver Island Traffic Services, may I wish you all a safe and patient holiday season.
Which gifts would I like to see under my tree this year, and which gifts would I like to leave there for other drivers? That's a tough question if one stops to think about it carefully and honestly. If I could only be so lucky as to have the chance!
For myself, I would like to have the patience to always deal with drivers politely and respectfully when they are anything but that at the side of the road. I know that it is impossible to leave everyone with a smile on their face, but it would be nice to at least have them understand that what happened was a consequence of their behaviour. If I could have this, then the next person I deal with wouldn't face a grumpy constable either!
For others, I would also like to give the gift of patience. I see so many drivers today who seem to say "I'm important, you are not. I'm in a hurry, get out of my way!" with their driving. Our highways must be shared equally in order to be safe. Driving is a partnership, not a contest.
As I write this, I am a bit surprised that I have chosen the same gifts for everyone. Should I be? It seems lately that I am often considering that I am in too much of a hurry or feeling pressed for time. Are those extra seconds I save by taking a risk or being tempted to drive too fast worth the safety of myself and the others I am sharing the road with? Almost always, the answer is no. I can choose for myself, but I cannot choose for others, so I must choose safety for us all.
On behalf of Vancouver Island Traffic Services, may I wish you all a safe and patient holiday season.