Slow Down

Today, I found myself running late for class. Somehow I seem to consistently underestimate how long it takes to get from my apartment to campus--that or I just enjoy breaking a sweat on my way to class.

As I pulled out of my apartment complex in a hurry, I was greeted by a red light. Of course. When the light finally turned green, the taxi cab in front of me didn't budge. I waited a few more moments...but still no movement. I'm reluctant to admit that in true Jersey style, I laid on the horn. Finally, he inched forward and took a right turn that also seemed to last an eternity.

As I began to pick up speed to make it through the 3-street intersection, I saw a car out of the right corner of my eye. I quickly realized that he was not slowing down for the red light. He whizzed right in front of me before I even had a chance to slow down. Narrowly missing me, he proceeded to hit a car coming from the opposite direction.

Many different thoughts brewed in my mind as I took a deep breath and tried to slow my heart rate. If the cab in front of me hadn’t been so delayed at the light, I would have been hit... If he hit the other car at a different angle, those passengers could have been seriously injured...What was he thinking?! (My guess is something other than the road...)

With those thoughts, I learned a few important lessons.

Patience: Life is not a rush. In a moment like that, safety is supremely more important than being a few minutes late to class. As a lesson to myself and others...take in the slow moments, the difficult moments, and of course the wonderful moments. Cherish them. Life is all the more beautiful and amazing because of the ups, downs, and turn-arounds.

Embrace Obstacles: Despite its definition as "a thing that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress," not all obstacles are bad. In fact, that thing that is blocking your way may also be the thing preventing you from harm. Or, it may be leading you in another, better direction. Look at your obstacles positively, whether its a slow taxi cab or a turned down job offer, and have faith in a greater plan!

Responsibility: Driving is a tremendous responsibility. When you jump in the driver's seat, you are not just responsible for your own safety, but for your passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians you encounter. Keep your attention on the road, and most importantly, put down the phone!