The human race is an interconnected web through which we are all a part, viewed as equals.

*Take off rose-colored glasses*

Now let’s get back to reality. I’m not trying to be pessimistic, but things just don’t go that way. Without even realizing it, we are constantly putting our interests before those of others, our culture and way of life as the “right” one. This is seen throughout history, and still occurs today.

Millisecond- n. the length of time it takes for the stoplight to turn green before the driver behind you starts honking.

Driving is an act of convenience and efficiency in some cases, a medium of irrational behavior in others. But unless you are a robot, which I really hope you are not, there is no way possible to be able to react in such a speed. I don’t know what it is about sliding into the driver’s seat and placing your hands on the wheel that turns levelheaded people into raving lunatics, but it’s potent.

Nothing is more embarrassing than watching your grandfather extend some “unfriendly gestures” at the car that cut him off.

When I was little, my dad used to tell me that honking at someone in a car is the equivalent of yelling at the old lady blocking the entire aisle at the grocery store. Now you are probably reading this and thinking, what kind of awful person would do that?

To answer in a word, you.

I’m not blaming the entire human race of being insensitive jerks, and there is a lot of good in the world. However, we should take the initiative to make the situation better. Impatience is that itch that never seems to go away, but what would the world be like if we spent five minutes, count ‘em, five minutes, to calm down and think about things? We need to stop thinking about ourselves and start being attentive of the needs of other people. Frankly, life is too short to do anything less.