Queuing at the roundabout on my morning commute, it certainly woke me up.
The driver behind me had moved forward prematurely. The result? Two shaken ladies and a little damage to both our vehicles.
After pulling over, we exchanged details. She, having been at fault, was more affected than I was. I expressed concern about whether she was OK to drive again and she reassured me that she was.
I've only had my little Fiat (fondly named Guido) for a couple of months. It's the newest vehicle I've ever owned. What bad luck, eh? What a scunner, as we say in the north-east. What a great excuse for a good old wallow in self pity.
Actually, no.
Let's put this little scenario in context. There I was. In my shiny, nearly new car. Commuting to a job that's stimulating, rewarding and which I'm well paid for.
I was unhurt. The damage to the car is minimal. If I need to fund the repair myself, then doubtless I'll be able to do so.
In the wider scheme of things, I'm healthy. My family are healthy. We are fortunate to have a nice roof over our heads and food in the cupboards.
Woe is me? I don't think so. What happened is a minor pothole on the comparatively smooth road of my life.
My problems are first world problems. Which means they're not really problems at all. Open your eyes a bit wider - switch on any news channel - and you'll catch my drift.
I'm no saint but I like to think I possess a little perspective.
That's why I feel sorry for the lady who ran into me. She got a real fright. I certainly don't feel sorry for myself.
It's only taken forty years. But I may have finally grown up.
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Love the many example of positivity in this - that you were more worried about the other person than yourself; that you could put the issue into a global perspective, and that you can see that in many ways you are lucky lucky lucky. Admirable!
ReplyDeleteAw, thanks Caz. I really appreciate the nice feedback.
DeleteLove the perspective. Took me about 40 years to grow up myself
ReplyDeleteAh good - glad it isn't just me! Thanks for stopping by.
DeleteSuch a beautiful outlook! #pocolo
ReplyDeleteThat means a lot. Thank you!
DeleteHi Clare, the world is full of madness and I like the way you approached your little knock. It's all about perspective and I doubt the lady who knocked you did it on purpose.
ReplyDeleteWe'd only had our car for about six months when someone lost control of their car and knocked into us. I was so relieved that no one was hurt I really didn't care and that car is still doing okay twelve years on.
xx
Hi Debbie - lovely to hear from you. Thanks for taking the time to comment. You are absolutely right: The priority is that the people - not the possessions - are unhurt. C x
DeleteWhat a great attitude. I do wish everyone was like that. I had a similar situation around 4 years ago - although I was the one who did the bumping! Thank you for linking to #PoCoLo x
ReplyDeleteThanks Victoria - it does give a wee scare and I think it's very easily done...Hope all is well with you. C x
DeleteI don't know how I missed this...Glad it wasn't more serious.xx
ReplyDeleteIts Awesome.
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