Just Another Car on the Road: Experience Matters
This morning, as I drove along, I realized I was robotically—almost automatronically—dodging potholes, slick patches, and road gaps on a stretch notoriously known for sewage overflow. It was second nature. I noted the time, chose the optimal route, and reached my destination without incident.
Man, my timing and instincts were on point. Swerving cars? Handled. Long traffic lights? Subverted. I even activated the detour of the detour of the detour just to weave through heavy traffic like a pro.
Boastfully, I announced to myself: “I am skilled at all facets of driving. I am the Driving King!”
(Cue French horn fanfare.)
Then it hit me.
The only reason I knew how to avoid those potholes, slick spaces, and tricky turns was because I’d hit them before. I’d learned firsthand that a car drifting into my lane was a real threat—to me and my passengers. I’d sat at those long lights. I’d suffered through traffic jams at certain hours. I didn’t read about these road hazards—I lived them.
I’m the Driving King now only because I was once the Driving Dunce.
Isn’t that just like life?
We all want to be the champion. But you don’t reach champion status without going through something. The pitfalls, potholes, slowdowns, and invaders—they’re all part of the road. And if you’ve never faced them, you’ll never know how to gracefully avoid—or overcome—them.
Bottom line: Experience matters.
Ooh—hold on, I’m right on top of one of my secret detours. Gotta go.
This is Ralph, and I’m just another car on the road.