So, after dropping the kids off at their schools this morning, I needed to send a a text message. Siri and I normally can sort this out, but we have been having communication issues lately. No problem there is a McD’s on corner, I’ll stop there hash out the message and be safely on my way. In front of me a driver missed the turn into the Drive Up lane, so I dutifully paused and let them back up, and join the folks waiting in line.
I was poised to maneuver through the sea of cars at this point to my open spot when a gentleman in a red truck whipped up along side me. He was close enough that he was tapping on my window. I was concerned that maybe this good Samaritan had a pressing issue that involved me (like hey did you know your car is on FIRE). So I rolled down the window… at which point I was now listening to the long list of ways I was of poor parentage, had made the worst life choices ever known to mankind, and was apparently the worst person ever.
You see while allowing that person to get back in line, I had (unbeknownst to me) blocked his departure from his parking slot. I am unaware of this shift in parking lot etiquette. I live the flow of the traffic law (and so does the rest of the world too). Wherein those who enter the flow are responsible for finding a spot to be part of the flow.
I responded with a quick, hey, Have a Great Day! and rolled that window back up. At this point since I was basically in line already it made perfect sense to get a Egg McMuffin sandwich. So with that in hand I proceed to a spot, sent off my message and was on my way. (I also got to say hey to my friend JT as well, so that a plus too)
The cynic might point out that no good deed goes unpunished, for had I not let that other car back in, this would have never happened… but I’ll add this.
I’m just glad was there for him to vent to. Perhaps letting off some steam toward me will help the rest of his day. Oh, and grumpy truck dude, when I offer up prayers on the behalf of myself and others today, you’ll be on the list, I hope that great and wonderful things accompany your future.
6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 1:6 (NASB95)
phillip w. martin 