HELLO GORGEOUS. IS IT TIME TO REDEFINE WHAT LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST MEANS?

Gracious Me: Consider Consideration

Gracious Me, gracious lifestyle column by etiquette Expert Mindy Lockard As an etiquette consultant, I try to evaluate my own behavior to make sure I’m growing more considerate, rather than focusing on the behavior of others. However, yesterday I witnessed an encounter that completely captured my attention. I had just pulled into a parking spot in front of my neighborhood Starbucks when I noticed a situation unfolding between the drivers (both women) of two automobiles: a large, black Denali and a red Camry. For the sake of this story, I will refer to the women involved in the exchange by their vehicles. Black Denali was talking on her cell phone as she pulled out of the parking lot. Red Camry was making a wide turn into the parking lot, attempting to pull into an employee parking space. Black Denali’s position in the lot prohibited Red Camry from making a wide turn into the spot. Black Denali held her ground. Red Camry pointed to the spot. Black Denali still held her ground. Red Camry again pointed to the spot. Black Denali continued to hold her ground. Red Camry put her hands together, pleading with Black Denali. Black Denali held her ground. Red Camry conceded, reversing into oncoming parking lot traffic to allow Black Denali to exit. As I watched this confrontation, I was puzzled by the spirit of the Denali driver. I understand the difficulty of maneuvering a large vehicle. However, Black Denali did not attempt to make space for Red Camry—even though there were four vacant parking spots next to her, which would have allowed her to pull over. As a bystander, I don’t think Red Camry was fault free, because her wide turn caused the incident. However, consideration should be extended no matter if we are in the right or if we are in the wrong. I have never met Black Denali, but I do see her frequently around town. Next time I see her, I will associate her with this encounter. Fair or not, we never know who is a spectator to our interactions and what conclusions they draw from our behavior. Extending consideration to everyone will make us not only feel better but look better too. Let’s take this idea of being generous with consideration, no matter who is in the “right.” I’d love for you to check back on Monday and share your experiences!
  1. This is very true. Even though we aren’t made of a perfect mold, I ALWAYS live by the simple rule my mama always said to me.; “treat others how you wish to be treated “. This always keeps me doing right.
    Great post!

  2. Oh Honey, it don’t matter how large the barge… it’s all about the motion in the ocean!! (I so really wanted to type that! LOL)

    I am the owner and driver of a very large luxury SUV. Regardless of the size of my environmentally-unfriendly-gas-guzzling-sumo-tank I think roadside etiquette to be most important. Look, we are all in a rush, we all want that one last spot in the lot but we mustn’t intimidate others with our presence. First come first serve. There is nothing that angers and aggravates me more than rude or selfish drivers. Furthermore, as a driver of said large amazon of a vehicle who has also driven small sporty vehicles, there is really not that much of a difference in their handling in terms of pulling into parking spaces. I have pulled up, back and sideways to let others through on many occasions. I think, if I witnessed such an event and saw the woman about town, I might even say something to her…

    Great post my friend… and you stick to those Principles of yours!

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