Technology, in the form of SatNav, or mobile maps, can be a very useful tool. I have never had a problem with it before, until tonight.
I was driving to call 4/8, a new call, and in an area I wasn’t too familiar with. The maps app on my phone was directing me. Roads appeared on the map and physically together. I was amazed at just how accurate it was. Lulling me into a false sense of security more like.
“In 50 yards bear left, your destination is on the right”
Wrong. And wrong.
On my right was house number 39, I wanted 48. “Ok I’ll just cross over and walk up a little.” I crossed the road, I walked up a little. The even side of the road was decreasing in number, the odd side increasing. I walked back the way I had come. I passed the car, houses and bungalows passed me. Where was number 48…?!
Spotted! There’s the number. It was round the corner!
Lovely lady, call was a breeze. Back to the car, on to call 5/8. I’m late but that’s not surprising.
I drive off, SatNav on and directing me again, I just needed a little help to get off the estate.
“At the lights turn left” really? Left? I know where I am by now and really wouldn’t turn left here. I’ll go right. “Turn round. Calculating new route.” I ignored it.
Call 5/8, blimey why has a large removal van parked at the junction, on a bend? I can’t see round. Is it safe? I inch out. I can’t see any approaching lights. I take a chance. I slam on the brakes and narrowly avoid hitting a cyclist, dressed in black, no reflectors or lights on their bike on an unlit street, coming round a huge lorry. They make a lovely hand gesture.
Now I have passed the lorry, I can see that cars are parked both sides of the road. Unusual. As far as I can see. I spend 10-15 minutes driving round and round to find somewhere to park. I’m late and time is ticking. I’m getting annoyed. I finally find a space. It’s reserved for a different apartment. I don’t care! I’m late and need to get this call started.
All this got me thinking:
1) how often do we step out in faith?
2) how often do we follow what we think is the right way, only to find we’re adrift, and searching for the right way?
3) how many times do we go round in circles, and never go anywhere except “stress valley”?