Autumnal Pet Peeves

I will stay a little more on the lighter side today, but not much. This is my Autumn 2021 list of pet peeves that challenge my desire to promote peace and harmony in the world. To paraphrase Michael Stipe, “That’s me in the Tundra, losing my religion.”

Much of what is wrong with present-day America could be repaired with a bit more compassion, enhanced concern for our neighbors, and a return to basic rules of etiquette and manners. Not everything is left or right; some of it is consideration, or the lack of it. Here are five topics which, if corrected, would be a good start:

Roadside Litter.  Actually, any litter but especially the garbage thrown by thoughtless motorists.  I thought we had sufficiently educated ourselves “back in the day” but apparently not.  There is a geographical component to this unsightliness. Drive through most of Kansas and Missouri and you rarely see anything except clean highways, streets and yards. Not so much Oklahoma and Arkansas. People often chide me for trash in my back seat, where it awaits proper disposal. I don’t care. We need to have pride in our cities, towns and states.

Left Lane Lurkers.  These are drivers who either didn’t pay attention in Driver’s Ed, or they have their left and right confused. Despite frequent signs in many places that advise slower traffic to keep to the right (“keep right except to pass” is an alternative), they just don’t get it. Until, that is, you pass them on the right. Then that’s when they want to move over to your lane.

The Turn-Signal Challenged.  I was taught that you signal a turn every time you prepare to turn or change lanes. Do it often enough, it becomes second nature, you don’t have to think about it.  Every day I encounter people who apparently refuse to use their turn signals. It comes off as inconsiderate, and it’s often dangerous. Definitely not cool. If you’re too lazy to engage signals, then heaven help you if you have to stop suddenly and need your brakes. That takes real effort.

The Supermarket Conversationalists.  Pushing carts, they meet in an aisle, engage in conversation, and callously ignore all others who are trying to get through from either wide. They often glare at you if you attempt to get their attention. I’m all for face-to-face communication, but there are proper times and places. Take your talk elsewhere, people!

Drive-Through Dysfunctionality. People use drive-through lanes at restaurants to save time, or at least they used to.  Nowadays, I see people chatting on their phones, texting or social media-cavorting, paying little attention to the vehicle ahead of them, or showing any concern for those still waiting to order. There may be fifteen cars behind them, but they will not move until they are finished. This has to be frustrating to the food-service people who are trying to keep the lines moving. It sure is for those waiting behind them. For the love of all that is holy, develop some situational awareness!