Starting and Driving

Starting something -- it seems the most difficult place for any action. So I'm doing this without any self evaluation. Let's see where it goes. I can't stand California drivers. If there is a ying to the yang of California's moderate climate, mountains, and beaches it would be the general sub-human attitude of the state's millions of motorists. Even the most delicate of blue hairs will flip you the bird. Forget any gestures of Thank You if you let someone into the lane. I used to take this personally but my sensitive self has hardened up. I'm street-wise now and while I'm still generous with my right of way, I've come to expect nothing from my fellow drivers.

It is quite lonely on the road...

Which was why I was so surprised on a recent trip to Portland, OR. I was driving behind a man in a tricked out Japanese racing vehicle, wearing a bandana and over-sized cap on his head, riding low with his seat back. He signaled into my lane and attempted to squeeze in. I backed off and gestured him in (all the while silently fearing for my life). He then proceeded to lower his window and stick his arm out, waving his hand rather gleefully in a motion of appreciation. THEN, he waved at me in his rear view mirror. I waved back overly excited about this experience. He wasn't who I thought he was. We connected and, in that moment, gratitude was exchanged. Silly as it sounds, it made my day.