the kind manager at the auto shop did me a solid
tossed me the keys to the shop shuttle
so I could go about my day while they turned wrenches
a Prius, too, so I could feel good about my place in the world
realizing soon that driving around in a white car
emblazoned with blue screaming “Courtesy Car”
and bearing the name of the establishment
was a bit of a stricture as well
I drove all day with uncommon courtesy
not too fast and not too slow, allowing others to go first
cutting off no one, smiling at all times
reserved, restrained, respectful
subtle social pressure, invisible obligation
awareness of eyes all around
making me a better man