My usual routine, when I get in the car, is not in the driver's manual. I gloss over a few important "take off" steps until after the car is moving. I'm frequently in a hurry so I steer with one hand, and fasten the seat belt with the other, while the car is rolling down the street. (I wouldn't know if my neighbors are friendly or not, and I don't wave, because I am preoccupied.)
Then I reach for my purse and feel around to check for my cell, gum, or list with one hand, while keeping an eye on the road and steering with the other. I know. It's not safe.
The other day, I had almost finished my little "in motion" routine, when I needed my sunglasses. I turned onto Ray road, which is where I usually settle down and focus on the drive. But the sun was blinding. Again, I found myself fishing along the bottom of my purse for my shades with one hand. I was relieved to find them and quickly placed them on my nose.
Within seconds, I knew something was wrong. I thought they were smudged as I cocked my head from side to side, up, down, and around, trying to see more clearly But for the most part they shielded me from the sun. That was important. I arrived at the bank and pulled in a parking space. I lifted the glasses off my nose to tuck them n my purse. Looking at them in my hand will forever bring a smile to my face. There they were - one lens in and one lens out!
I thought of the people I passed, who must have wondered about me. (The woman with the one eyed sunglasses, rotating her head all around with complete seriousness.) It did teach me a lesson, though. Just because everything is in your purse doesn't mean you should wait until you get in the car to organize every needful thing. I will do better.
And I'll be more compassionate.
