Can we all count to Four?

Wednesday is the day I spend quite a bit of time on the road. I am used to people eating, talking on their cell phones, gesturing widely while telling a story, conducting a rock band, shaving, and holding dogs on their laps, all the while trying to control their automobile with their elbow or knee. Or as I saw today, their chin.

Fascinating, I tell you. I really enjoy driving when that little bit of terror is thrown at me. Sure, just change lanes, with no turn-signals because as a matter of fact, I can read minds. Sure, turn right from the left hand turn lane, because I didn't need that side of my car anyway. Sure, dart across three lanes of traffic to catch that exit, because I needed to know my anti-lock brakes really do work the way they say they do.

It is all part of sharing the roads, throw in some bicyclists, maybe the sun, someone looking for an address, a garbage truck and we are all just having some serious fun here.

But four way stops, come on people, how hard are they really? You can count to four without taking off your shoes and socks, heck you only need one hand. Four glasses of wine, 2 too many (OK, 1, but still) Four donuts, delicious, but unnecessary. Four pieces of bacon, a dream come true. Four bracelets, the perfect jingly accessory.

Yet, today, total dismal failure for drivers of their cars to count to four. Add in one or two turn lanes, a pedestrian and we are at full grid-lock. Go, Stop, Go, Stop, Honk, Flip Off, Go, Stop, scare pedestrian half to death, Go.

The whole drive to the intersection took less time then actually making it through the four way stop. One person decided to not stop at all, which is always thrilling. One person thought if you stop two cars back, that is enough stopping for that one intersection. Or, my personal favorite, FLOOR IT, and don't look back. Or the saddest of all, someone who has just given up and is permanently stuck in their lane while the cars behind them honk up a storm.

I think if we all try we can achieve this one little goal, to get through the four way stop without swearing, slamming on the brakes, or having a stare down with someone who went when it wasn't their turn.

Now I am off to give it another try. Wish me well!