by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 08/02/2025
A casual conversation, overheard:
“I ‘member when y’ could ack-shly bang a left out o’ Hunnydoo Donitz.”
The group holding court in the corner were referring to the increasingly heavy –
and increasingly frustrating – traffic along Franklin’s main drag – Route 140.
“Yeh. You got that right. Ain’t like it usta be – wikkid busy these days.“
Behind the wheel, most of us suffer in silence. Then there are those who refuse to suffer so silently. They’re quick to lean on that horn over any and every thing.
Their car horn becomes weaponized.
Conversely, there are some who struggle to drive. They’re acutely hyper-cautious.
It’s all dangerous. Leaning on the horn from behind? Not helpful.
Standing at a corner, I witnessed one driver ‘of a certain age’ carefully preparing to negotiate a left turn. He rolled slowly, almost to a stop. The driver behind him wasn’t having it, and repeatedly hit the horn.
“What’s it take just to negotiate a left turn? You need a negotiating team.? Turn already.”
More impatient honking – and yelling.
“Just take the turn, old man. Why are you even on the road?”
The cautious driver had started turning, then abruptly stopped – got out –
calmly walked back to the honker/screamer behind him. He said,
“I was turning – when all the honking distracted me – and yes, I froze.
Consider, sir, that someday, if you are fortunate enough to live long enough – and to drive long enough – this – will be your turn.
And, in turn – I hope that whoever is behind you is more considerate – more patient.”
Absent simple turns of kindness, what’s left?
And – as always –
Thank you for listening to wfpr●fm.
And, thank you for watching.
