Citizen rules
I’ve been thinking about this idea for a column for a few days and started to compile this list. This is not going to be a serious test of anyone’s behavior or misbehavior, just a very incomplete review of the expectations/rules we face regularly and our possible compliances. No requirement for written responses – no judgmental result. Just think about it.
1.) The grocery store. How many of you do not regularly return carts to the designated area in the parking lot?
2.) Red and yellow parking zones or designated parking spots. Do you take advantage of the open spot to take care of business even though it is not in front of the business you are patronizing?
3.) Recycling. Do you consistently pay attention to the rules regarding what items can be put into recycling bins? Clean/rinsed, correct plastic marking, etc. Or do you just think recycling is good so I will recycle everything and somebody else can sort?
4). Right turn after stop on a red light. Nobody at the intersection, why do I need to stop?
5.) Tipping after service at a restaurant. 10 percent, 20 percent - regardless of the level or quality of service are you obligated/required to tip? Does everyone at the table have to agree?
6.) Two cars come to the intersection at the same time; rule is the car to the right has the right of way. What if you are in a hurry and that person to the right hesitates?
7.) You get to the end of a meal, your friend suggests splitting the ticket but you have mentally noted your friend has ordered ala carte, extra drinks, and more expensive items. What to do?
8.) Your next-door neighbor has the immaculate yard to put all in the block to shame in comparison. Do you embrace the view, vow to emulate, or resent the disparity?
9.) Your regular route has three lanes. Outside lane moves fast. The middle lane is not moving nearly as fast but allows merging into either of the lanes. However, the lane you need to get into is chronically backed up. Do you get in line in the slow lane ASAP? Or stay in fast moving lane and butt into the slower moving lanes at the last moment?
10.) Is it acceptable to use a handicapped parking sticker (issued to you but no longer needed) when providing transportation and assistance to another person (who is physically challenged but does not have said sticker) to help them get to their medical appointments?
11.) With all the deliveries being made today, you receive a front-door delivery for someone not on your street, but a few blocks away – what do you do?
12 ) You coach sports (regardless of the sport) for the little kids in your area. You note a parent is both absent from picking their child up on time, spending time encouraging their child, but also over involved vocally in the officiating and playing time for the child. Your role to confront?
Hasn’t life gotten complicated?
