In some ways, we are responsible for each other

What do you do to make the world a better place? I can honestly say that on a daily basis, I make a conscious effort to brighten people’s days.

Using the “pay it forward” concept, I printed and laminated cards that read, Random acts of Kindness, Pass it on. I have used the cards many times, and other times, I am just nice and do things for strangers. Sometimes I get weird looks like I’m crazy or something, and that saddens me. Is it really so strange to do nice things for others?

Are you healthy? Do you live a healthy lifestyle? Do your kids? I only ask because I care, honestly. Though I don’t know you, I believe that we are connected and responsible for one another. Your behavior directly or indirectly affects me as does mine, you.

Some people say that I speak too candidly. I start up conversations with people behind me in lines, in supermarket aisles, and on park benches. I ask the elderly if they need help, I ask children where their parents are, and I ask teens on the street if they’ve eaten. I am nosy, curious and always sincere.

Only out of kindness and concern, I ask this of you. There is something you do that really affects my family and me and I would like you to become aware of it. It also affects others who ride their bikes or walk on Sprague Avenue.

The concept of being responsible for others plays a huge role here. It is apparent that many of you do not feel responsible for anyone but yourselves when you are behind the wheel of your car. Leaving a fast food restaurant, you shove food in your mouth and sip on a pop as you exit the parking lot. Leaving a store, you examine your purchases as you make a California stop before turning onto Sprague. As you talk on your cell phone, you turn quickly off of Sprague with a last minute “oops, I need to turn here” and you come inches from mowing down my son.

Everyone does it. It is easy at a glance to recognize the fact that no cars bar your way. In a matter of milliseconds, your thoughts of self-preservation have kicked in and said to you, “OK, no cars, therefore you and your vehicle are safe; now, go.” Rarely does the concern for someone on the sidewalk fit into that equation. Admit it. It’s happened to me, that heart-stopping feeling you get when you almost kill someone.

Upon arriving home from work one evening, my husband was greeted by a very stressed out wife and two kids. After a 10-mile bike ride to Players & Spectators and back, we had almost been hit at least 10 times, once for every mile. My hands were sore from their death grip on the handlebars, and my neck ached from constantly rubber-necking in search of the next thoughtless driver behind the wheel of a killing machine. It is not a pleasant experience.

Reading this over my shoulder, my husband remembers that time. That evening changed him in a very good way. Now, he says, he always checks the sidewalk before crossing. In remembering our story, he has become more aware and considerate of others. He does not own the road, and neither do you. Likewise, bike riders who cross illegally, shame on you!

We are connected and responsible for one another, truly we are. If you think that way quotidian (you just learned a new word), see if it doesn’t change your world just a little bit. I know it will. Now imagine if everyone felt that way. As for riding bikes, we will keep doing so in hopes that you read this and pass it on. I also hope to see you out there! Perhaps we can start a campaign out here in the Valley — “The Spokane Valley — A great place to ride bikes!” Of course, we’d need bike lanes for that (hint to the mayor).