It isn’t easy, getting along with people. A simple grocery store run can easily turn into a major incident if a parking spot is involved. Once, while out shopping, I saw a car pulling out of its space. There were two other cars waiting for the spot. Admittedly the parking lot was full and people wanted to avoid parking in the “back 40.”
I wasn’t being nosy, I was just stuck because of the traffic in the parking lot. So, out of boredom, I watched. The original owner of the spot barely managed to exit because both of those waiting were parked so close. When there was just enough room to maneuver, the car that had arrived first (I saw them pull up) slipped in. The one who missed out on the spot made her frustration known by hitting her horn loud and long.
Not wanting to incur a similar fate when I exited the shops, I immediately headed to the back 40 for a parking spot
Black Friday shopping and the back 40
I wonder at times like that what will those two do if they run into one another after exiting their cars? In today’s age of road rage, I shudder to think!
The strength of our free-thinking, independent society can also be our downfall. Why is it so important to get the parking spot or be first?
Many years ago, I went on my first, and last, Black Friday shopping trip. Shoppers were angry, shoving one another, all to get a discounted item they could have done without. The excuse of getting Christmas presents for loved ones at a good price should never give license for ugly behavior.
Even then, you can park in the back 40.
When all else fails, just be nice
So what’s the alternative to being angry? Just be nice. I know that sounds like a cop-out but I don’t mean it to be. Considering what anger does to you, affecting your heart health, digestion, psychological health, and more, it’s wise to keep it under control.
Please don’t misunderstand me, I’m not talking about becoming a doormat. I am just pro-God’s way of handing things.
“Do not offend Jews or Greeks or any part of the church of God for that matter. Consider my example:I strive to please all people in all my actions and words—but don’t think I am in this for myself—their rescued souls are the only profit.”
1 Corinthians 10:32-33 Voice
Our lives here on earth are simply a pilgrimage to our heavenly home. Those we encounter, the good, the bad, and the ugly, along the way are potential family members who we can influence along the way.
Living with others in mind means parking in the back 40 sometimes. It’s not the worst thing that can happen. Give it a try.
Related reading: If you’ve ever struggled with anger or frustration, you may also enjoy:
Be Nice, 1 Simple Way to Avoid a Crisis
