 | Charlie Lessons from Experience |
| Charlie Lessons from Experience |
When you could drive, you may have called upon the AAA for help. Today when you need help finding a ride, you should remember the AAA's of successful alternative transportation. The three A's are attitude, attitude, and attitude. If you do not have a good attitude, you may have difficulties in getting a ride.
Nobody enjoys being around an old grump. Sure we all have our problems, but do not burden your driver with them. We also need to remember that, just because we have a vision handicap, nobody owes us any special favors.
Being friendly and courteous is very easy. Sometimes it may be difficult to maintain the proper balance as some things can be overdone. But they should never be omitted. Always thank your driver for the ride.
How well do you know your neighbors? The more you know and the better you know them, the better chance you may have of finding a ride. Learn their habits and routines. If they do not drive at night or on freeways, you should know this, so you will not ask for a ride that may require driving after dark or on a freeway. When do they go shopping? Learn to coordinate your activities with theirs.
Nobody should be considered as being at your call or beckoning at a moments notice. Not even your spouse or child. It pays to plan and to be organized. It's great when your driver thinks that it's nice to give you a ride because you are on time. Know where you want to go and what you want to get or do.
A simple "thank you" is a reward that should never be omitted. But if you wish to do more than this, it can be a problem. Few will acccept your offer to buy a tank of gas, but you can always offer. Treating your driver to lunch or dinner now and then is an offer that is welcomed. When you make the offer be specific: set a date, and you can suggest a restaurant or ask if your driver has a choice. An appropriate present at the right time is helpful. It needs not be expensive. Know your driver's likes and dislikes, so that an unwanted or useless gift is not given. A cash gift must be given with discretion. It may be welcomed or scorned. Remember birthdays, holidays, and special events. A card can be a nice rememberance.
Spread the business around. Do not call on a person too frequently. The more friends, neighbors and relations you have, the easier it is to spread the burden. It is also a good idea to have an ace up your sleeve. That is a person you rarely call upon, but may be able to help when you are in dire need.
You do not make points in criticizing a person's driving or the way they go. If you don't like it, you have to choose: keep quiet, find somebody else, or stay home.
The more friends and neighbors you have, the better your chances are for finding a ride. Get to know all of your neighbors, and become friends with them. Do not forget the three A's: attitude, attitude, and attitude.
