In Seeking the Open Road

My son is nearly five months away from getting his learners permit to drive. Oh, the Horror!

Nearly every day (when the kids are with me) between the little morning and evening commute between home and work/school the talk centers on driving. It is a good thing as it keeps the minor, bad driving habits in check. A father must set a good example. And as a result, there have been some lessons learned.

It’s become apparent tailgating isn’t so much the need for speed but a desire to get out and away from traffic. The open road is the true desire. The ironic part is once the open road is discovered a comfortable (and legal) speed feels better. I actually slow down once I can get out from a cluster of cars. Cruise control rules (and would be nice to have in my little roller skate of a car).

Hmmm!

It appears the same thing applies with work where time is money. Go, go, go is the normal mode. Quick decisions, cold edits, and often knee-jerk responses tend to rule. It is what the typical manager demands. Yet, when time allows for a more thoughtful approach, one that is planned out, the quality is better. The open road, so to speak, allows for a better, warmer experience to take over.

Home life isn’t much different. Run, run, run translates into high gear constantly. Yet, when time is shared over a meal together with good conversation or an outing where the family can relax and enjoy each other’s company, the better feelings prevail.

A competitive person, I am not. I “Mr. T” the fool who feels compelled to jockey, maneuver, and nearly clip the front bumper to get in front of me, despite my tailgating tendencies.

Most people need competition to help dictate the speed. I don’t. I choose cruise control for a better experience when it is allowed. That is why I tailgate, to get into the clear. Honestly!