The Power We Hold

“I
was driving in my lane, and the next thing I knew I was flipped onto
the driver’s side quickly sliding toward the median, metal
screeching on asphalt and shattered glass from the windows”
recounted my mom.

In
2008, my mother’s life was saved by a seatbelt. The man who hit her
ended up causing the car to tumble, resulting in my mom needing to be
cut out with Jaws of Life. Luckily, my mom came out of the accident
with minimal injuries. Yet, she retained the unforgettable memory of
what another’s reckless driving can cause. Often people are not as
lucky as she was. 

It’s
been almost a year since I’ve had my license. Every time I sit
behind the driver’s wheel, I’m reminded of the immense
responsibility I have. Drivers often get so caught up with their
destination, that they lost sight of the responsibility they have
during their journey. Our lives are so busy that we often forget how
essential it is to practice safe and defensive driving. 

While
driving has helped our society make historic strides towards progress
and efficiency, it comes with a price. Too many lives have been
hindered or taken by reckless driving. It is time to slow down, and
reevaluate how we approach the power we hold behind a wheel.