Damned if they do, damned if they don’t

I usually take the train to commute to work, but the other day I had to drive in and was listening to talk radio when they were discussing Gustav and the evacuation of New Orleans.  I realized about two seconds in to listening that my head was shaking in disbelief.  They were interviewing several people who were FREAKING out that they were told they had to wait a little bit longer before they were allowed to go back home.  Two days total.  Just to be safe.

I find this unbelieveable.  After all the shit the government endured for NOT properly evacuating New Orleans for Katrina, the government errs on the safe side and does a full evacuation for a storm that while weather man can do a good job of predicting, they aren’t god and can’t tell 100%.  The people being interviewed were LIVID that they were not allowed back home because the town wanted to make sure it was safe to go back.  People were saying that the whole thing was ridiculous and that the next time an evacuation was called they were NOT leaving.  What??!  Really??  Are these people stuck on stupid!  It’s the same people that will be screaming at the officials that they didn’t “make” them leave!  Do people not remember Katrina?

And it is similiar to the airport.  Now I’m not a fan of lines, having to wait, or having to throw out something that didn’t make the 3.5 fl. oz. cut.  But I do understand that they do all this for our security and safety and to cover their own ass if something happens and the world turns to point fingers.  Yet, it never ceases to amaze me how angry people get about having to go through this.  Do people not remember 9/11?

Also, the Bay Bridge is currently under safety inspection from an accident that occurred a few weeks ago.  It is causing horrible traffic as they have to shut down lanes to do testing.  People are furious.  Which is funny, because I’m so happy that they are making sure it is safe.  Can you imagine a scenario where the Bay Bridge COLLAPSED?  And how quick people would jump on the state and transportation departments to blame them for not having tested the bridge?  Do people not remember the bridge collapse in Minnesota?

It blows my mind.  Now I have a lot of beef with our government about a few things but taking the extra precaution is not one of them.  Have patience people.  And think about it the next time you are stuck in a line or traffic or an evacuation plan – what’s the point in getting SO angry about something that is not in your control and is put there for safety NOT for inconvenience (even though at times it may seem that way).   And remember, the person you are probably going to scream at because you may be running late, really has nothing to do with it.  They are simply there because it’s their job, their paycheck, and they were told what to do.

The next time you find yourself in a situation that may not be ideal, but is there for a reason, try to realize how silly overreacting about it is.  It makes a huge difference, saves your stress level and makes standing in whatever line you are in a little easier.  I find it to be an interesting experience if my train is delayed or I’m at an airport to watch people who are angry and yelling.  There I am sitting patient and accepting the situation while some man looks like a complete fool because he’s making a scene about civil rights to make himself feel better by yelling at someone who has no control over the situation either.  Try it, it’s really interesting to watch when you remain calm!