[Marty94]

This morning my parents were heading north on their trip back home to NY. I couldn’t convince them to stay a few more days until this blows over. I went over to Walmart very early to fill their tank as I didn’t want them to stress about finding gas. While I was waiting, a man in a lawn mowing service truck circled the lot yelling obscenities at everyone as loud as he could. I didn’t see him actually stop to get gas. I guess he just wanted everyone to know how he felt about people getting gas.

A few nights ago, I took my parents to Sumter to listen to music. My Dad is in his 90s and takes pride in still using his walker, but his mobility is very limited. So, I pulled up as close to the curb as I could, dashed out and got his walker. It took me about 30 seconds to get him from the car to the sidewalk. As I did so, a female driver screamed an obscenity at me and told me to find a handicapped spot (if only there were any).

In both incidents, the drivers felt emboldened to scream their foul mouthed objections. They chose to judge and then use inflammatory words. I’m not sure as a society how we have degraded and simply lost compassion for each other. It’s quite sad really and it makes me think a lot about my parents who struggle everyday, thankful to wake up and see the sun shine. It gives me reason to pause and reflect on how I can be more aware of those around me that might be struggling and simply take a breath and let them be or help them if needed.

Folks, this temporary gas shortage is just that, temporary. Let’s take some time today to accentuate the positive. Shut off your TVs for a few days and get off Facebook. Take a walk, get on your bike, go swim in the pool, or just read a good book. Decompress. Be patient with the elderly. We have so many here that need our patience, understanding and compassion. Give them time to get gas, cross the street or safely drive their car. One day, you will be that person. Life is too short to be mean. It takes up too much energy.