Driving Lessons

By Peter Stewart

Go slowly at first. You are far more precious

Than the car you are driving. Don’t be rushed.

Even in a traffic jam, everything has its pace,

And you are just starting. Be as calm as you can be

And learn to laugh at other people’s ways —

Eventually you’ll laugh with compassion.

Go smoothly up the gears but be aware

Sometimes you’ll drop the clutch

And gears will grind and clunk –

Don’t be embarrassed, that’s just life.

The important thing here is to disengage

Because there is always time. Put your foot down

On the clutch, not the accelerator and

If you stall again, take that as part of life as well.

Don’t worry if someone behind you hoots –

Above all, don’t let their rage become yours.

Stop somewhere safe

And share a smile with the sky.