You know the old saying, "Walk a mile in my shoes" ......... before passing judgement on me and what I do. I know that it is true that it makes little sense to place blame or point fingers at someone until you have, well, walked a mile in his or her shoes, boot, sandals, sliders, wedgies, slippers, flip flops, crocs, or Vibram Fivefingers. (The latter footwear is poorly named because it is not fingers, but rather toes, that go in each appendage space. They should be called Vibram Fivetoes.)
Anyway, it can be challenging to view a situation from afar or even close-up and not feel the urge to comment. But, there do seem to be some situations that shout " logical choice" and not "multiple choice". One such situation might be when to give up driving. Admittedly, this is a decision that can be fraught with drama, trauma, and hurt feelings - especially on the part of the one being asked to surrender the car keys forever.
Legally, there is not much clarity nor consistency. In some states, (where I am aware of the procedure) the process of the cessation of driving can begin with a complaint being lodged, with law enforcement officials, against said driver. The complaint then results in a mandatory behind-the-wheel driving test with state motor-vehicle officials. If the controversial driver passes this exam then questioning ability is a moot point and the person can continue to drive with no restrictions.
Setting aside the legal ramifications, there is always the plea from family members and friends to the questionable driver, hoping that approach will bring common sense to the person. My observation with this scenario is that it is rarely effective. Giving up the keys to the Grand Am is akin to surrendering independence, which is anathema to most individuals. The resulting consequence is that Uncle Joe or Aunt Matilda can continue to ply the highways and byways until such time that they either stop of their own volition or some event causes them to be forced to give up the steering wheel and four tires.
I can only hope that I sell my wheels long before my friends and loved ones find it necessary to begin hinting, refusing to ride with me, or making anonymous phone calls to the authorities.
We all may be wearing these shoes some day. I hope that more of us choose voluntary surrender that involuntary grounding.
Ancora imparo
