Do you ever feel like you go day to day without looking up or remembering what passed you by while driving down the road? Sometimes it’s nice to shake up your daily routine and familiar surroundings to create awareness. Going on a vacation, staycation, or as far as a different country can shake things up. You will most certainly find “different” if you visit another country. And different is good! Immersing yourself in another culture can be educational and even calming. This enlightenment can come from things outside of tours and attractions. It is simply being aware and taking in the environment surrounding you.
Stepping outside your time zone can introduce various cultures, languages, rules, and ways of life. I’m sitting here in England awaiting the birth of my first grandchild and I am reminded how many distractions bombard us as we navigate to and from work, going from the car into the house, and even simple tasks such as making dinner. Do we truly focus on the moment in what we are doing or what is happening around us?
In England, you cannot aimlessly walk along the paths in a green (park) with your focus on the phone. There are other walkers, bikers, skateboarders, etc. coming from multiple directions. You not only look in front and to the sides, but you must pay attention to what is coming from behind. Not all bikers use the cute little bell to let you know they are on your tail. One slight step to the side could mean a kiss on the pavement. Awareness not only keeps YOU safe but others as well.
When walking on paths or sidewalks, it appears the English way is to walk to the left side while those coming toward you pass on the right. Makes sense as cars drive on the left side of the road here across the pond. It only takes a little awareness to adjust. I heard someone say, “They drive and walk on the wrong side of the road!” That is very telling. Our personal way is not necessarily right; it’s just different.
One thing is for certain: people pay more attention when walking and crossing streets here in the UK. It would be a bummer to step in front of a double-decker bus! However, it’s not just about our own safety. It’s about being aware of our surroundings and those surrounding us. One of my ongoing statements while raising my three kids was “Be aware of your surroundings.” I find myself saying that to adults!
Decals on the sidewalks and pathways around England say, “Awareness and Respect”. Simple as that! It’s a shame we need that as a reminder, but we all can be a little self-absorbed at times. Whether you are outside the country or in your own neighborhood, slow down and create awareness of your surroundings. I have to remind myself of that. Remind your kids to do the same. You just may notice something you never appreciated before or, better yet, you might show someone else awareness and respect.
