Hidden Consequences

I recall an episode of Judge Judy where a person was sued due to damage to their vehicle. The plaintiff asserted that the defendant had allowed her shopping cart to roll into her car. There was a dent as a result. The defendant claimed that she was not responsible. I still see people who leave their shopping carts everywhere. Individuals do not always consider the consequences of their actions.

So often when shopping for groceries I see carts strewn about. Some take up parking spaces. Others are resting against the side of a stranger's car. I have also seen them abandoned in parks and on street corners. It is the responsibility of the store to gather them up to be sure. In the meantime there are cart corrals where a customer may leave it after they have finished their shopping.

There are other examples of laissez-faire attitudes. Garbage is strewn about our roads and highways. Drivers regularly use their cellphones while commuting. These behaviors are not limited to automobiles. Diners in restaurants care little about the fact that waitstaff is taxed whether or not they receive a tip. It may be natural for a dog to bark but what about the nuisance the noise causes others?

I am sure that you can come up with your own examples of annoying behavior or pet peeves. There are many who just do not care how their actions affect others. I believe that this has a cumulative effect. We develop greater disdain for those whom we do not know. We slowly, over time, become downright selfish. Any behavior can become a habit. Only seeing what affects us is a terrible way to live. Other people simply become roadblocks that we barrel through with nary an afterthought.

Not all of us act in such a cold and careless manner. I am speaking to those who think that as long as their needs are met, what else is there to discuss? There is a world outside of your head. People exist and their wants and needs are as valid as yours. Try to consider others. When you act please do so in a manner that you would expect from another. Selfishness makes one small and petty. Be a big person and let your generosity and caring shine through!