The Right Thing To Do

To my son Tommy,

Down here in OCNJ, they have very complete street crossing system. Most every corner has a proper crossing light and those that don't still have a system. We have been working on this since we arrived, teaching you what to look for and when to cross. This is for your safety and everyone elses piece of mind.

But this education comes with some unique challenges. First, you have already begun to notice how not everyone follows the crossing rules. Here we stand waiting, and kids, adults, bikes, and what have ya go right through with no regards to the rules. It is a tough thing to understand, but we try to follow the rules even when others do not.

The second situation comes later in the evening. You approach a corner, and the crossing signal says do not cross, but there are no cars, no traffic, and no one around to judge you if you cross. Do you stay and wait for the signal to change? Well as you grow up you will have to make your own decision, but just know the true character of a man is what he does when no one is looking and you can get away with it. I personally wait... Though from time to time even I falter and just go ahead and cross.

Sincerely with love from your dad,
Leo