Sometimes revisiting a simpler way of life reminds us of important things: Take single track roads with passing places, for example…
(We have these in Scotland, especially on the islands, but maybe not in your part of the world, I know.)
In case you’ve never experienced this…
To cope with the road not being wide enough for two cars to pass, “passing places” are built every so often. A degree of consideration and collaboration between converging drivers is required so that one pulls into the space at the side to let the other pass, possibly waiting briefly for the oncoming vehicle, all in a manner that optimises journey times for everyone.
And of course, it’s considered courteous to wave thanks, and perhaps also to acknowledge thanks from the other.
The system requires this degree of co-operation (and a little more) to work and for everyone to benefit. And you know… we probably feel good about playing our part—giving as well as taking.
Back in the city…
Our lives are perhaps more competitive—faster paced.
So there’s less need for that kind of courteous co-operation.
Or is there?