One of the most fulfilling parts about being Sheriff is the opportunity to visit with people throughout the county and get their feedback on concerns or input. One of the most frustrating parts about being Sheriff is the inability to solve many of those concerns. While we have an amazing staff and make the best possible use of the technology and equipment afforded to us, in the end, the greatest impact on our community’s wellbeing and safety comes from the collective effort of each and every member of our community.
We just finished up the month of May, which was Law Enforcement Appreciation month, and there is no doubt that the tireless efforts of these amazing men and women are crucial to the quality of life we enjoy here in Kewaunee County. However, a great deal of the credit also goes to the amazing community we serve and the willingness of everyone to live an honest life, make good choices, and treat each other with respect. Every day, we witness the realities of communities where these fundamentals are not observed and the impact they have on the quality of life in those communities. So, to this point, I would like to share some thoughts on one of the most common concerns I get when I am out and about and how each of us can have an impact on the necessary corrective action.
The primary concern that I hear most often is traffic violations. This is everything from speeding to passing in no-passing zones or failure to stop at controlled intersections. I would add to these, concerns regarding equipment of vehicles ranging from loud exhaust to loud radios. As I thought about how I was going to word this, I was having a conversation with our youngest Son, James, and he coined a phrase I will use here; “Car-mmunication”
Since the advent of the automobile, we, as Americans, have had a special relationship with our individual means of transportation. Our vehicles are in fact an extension of our own identity. From the color to the style and the accessories, we add to them. Similarly, how we operate our motor vehicles is also an extension of our us. Those who have never met us are able to draw conclusions as to our personalities, temperament, and character. This is where the phrase “Car-mmunication” comes to play. It is said that in any given conversation, it is not the actual words we say, but rather in what people see that have the greatest impact. This is known as our “Non-verbal” communication.
As we operate our vehicles from place to place, we are in fact non-verbally communicating or “Car-mmunicating”. When we speed, we are communicating a lack of planning and disrespect for those who did plan and are able to maintain the proper speed. When we follow too closely, we are communicating impatience and aggressiveness. When we pass in a no-passing zone, we are saying to those around us that our lives and theirs mean little in the pursuit of our goals. When we fail to use our directional signals, we communicate that we are oblivious to those around us.
The same can be said for the equipment on our vehicles. If we modify our exhaust, resulting in excessive noise, or play our music at an unreasonable volume, we are communicating our disregard for the peace and tranquility of our community. If, as operators of commercial trucks, we make unnecessary use of our engine brakes, we are communicating that either we lack the skill to operate that vehicle, or again we are just disregarding our community and that we lack the essential character strength of respect.
It all comes down to the accountability we have to each other. I have often felt that placing our names prominently our vehicles would be a great step in this increased accountability, but regardless of our anonymity, we should each consider what our actions especially behind the wheel, are saying about our character. Let’s all make an effort to “Car-mmunicate” respect, patience and care for those around us. While we are at it, maybe consider adding a cheerful wave as we meet. Just remember to use all five fingers!
