Dear Editor:

We live in a world where everybody is in a hurry. We should have been where we’re going at least the day before yesterday. All of this, and we wonder why there are so many heart attacks, mean spirits, breakdowns and countless other ailments.

The best example I know of is driving in today’s traffic. The only thing I know of that might be as hazardous is war. There are days that I would argue with you as to which is the more dangerous. We all should wear the same gear that race car drivers do. All of the four-way stops have become games of “chicken.” The one who gets there first doesn’t matter. The one with the most guts takes the right of way.

A short while ago, I pulled up to a traffic light on Lafayette Parkway, and my old S-10 died. A car behind me honked, and through my rear-view mirror I saw a sight I’ve never seen before. All my life I’ve heard of “hissy fits,” but this is first time I’ve ever witnessed one.

I don’t know sign language, but I don’t believe the man was saluting me. I don’t read lips, but I don’t think he was wishing me a nice day.

I finally got the “gray ghost” fired up and rolling, and “Mr. Impatient” came barreling around me, tires screaming, and left me in a cloud of smoke.

Two traffic lights later, I pulled up behind him. All the wear and tear he had put on his heart and nerves, as well as the danger he had put us all in, including myself, and he had gained one car length. Was it worth it?

Should I have tooted my horn and waved at him? You know I didn’t, for I’m not writing this from a hospital bed. Big L says, “If you don’t want the dog to bite, don’t twist his tail.”

J. Calvin Foster

Poplar Circle, LaGrange