As the feast of Saint Christopher, patron saint of drivers, approaches on July 25th, the debate over driver behavior on the roads is reigniting in some countries, such as Poland.
Father Daniel Wachowiak, pastor of the Saint Brother Albert parish in Koziegłowy, near Poznań in Poland, recently addressed this topic with the KAI news agency, highlighting the moral dangers of irresponsible driving. "A lack of common sense, recklessness, selfishness, and a lack of courtesy and sensitivity towards others are not always covered by the law, but they can nevertheless be morally reprehensible," he explained.
The Responsibility of Drivers
Father Wachowiak is not alone in his concern. Magdalena Wit-Wesołowska, a traffic psychologist, points out that many drivers, whether believers or not, display a Saint Christopher sticker on their car, a symbol of protection and safety on the road. "Any occasion is good for educating drivers," she adds. The current situation on Polish roads is concerning: since the start of the summer holidays, 194 people have lost their lives in road accidents.
Avoiding Selfishness and Haste
Wit-Wesołowska reminds drivers of the importance of thinking of other road users. "We must remember that we are not alone on the road. Haste is never a good advisor. If we are in a hurry, let's leave a few minutes earlier to avoid the stress of traffic jams or detours. Furthermore, it is crucial to only drive when we are in good psychophysical condition. If we feel unwell, it is better not to get behind the wheel."
The Fight Against Selfishness According to Pope Francis
Pope Francis has often referred to selfishness as a "sickness of the heart". This negative characteristic is unfortunately all too often observed in drivers. Father Wachowiak insists on the importance of courtesy, self-control, and sensitivity towards others. "If such positive qualities and behaviors were more widespread, we would not have foolish behaviors like aggressive driving or illegal maneuvers," he adds. He also reminds us that every driver is part of a community and has a responsibility to ensure the safety of all road users.
Emotions Behind the Wheel
Aggressiveness and risky behaviors are often triggered by time pressure. "When we are late, we feed on negative emotions. Frustration breeds aggressiveness. We are still not courteous enough on the road; we lack exemplary behaviors like letting someone pass or saying thank you," observes Wit-Wesołowska. She also emphasizes that positive emotions, like negative ones, can be contagious. "If we thank someone, let them pass, or smile at them, that person will be more inclined to adopt these positive behaviors on the road as well."
Acknowledging Road Sins
Priests observe an increased awareness of faults committed behind the wheel among the faithful. "During confession, I meet people who acknowledge their sins related to the incorrect use of a car and the non-observance of traffic rules," explains Father Wachowiak. "Although not all infractions constitute a mortal sin, some attitudes, even if not illegal, can be morally reprehensible."
Also read | Happiness Begins When the Ego Dies
The Driver's Decalogue from MIVA Polska
To raise awareness among drivers, the MIVA Polska association has created a "Driver's Decalogue" reminding us of the behaviors to adopt on the road:
- Avoid selfishness on the road.
- Refrain from being aggressive, whether in words, actions, or gestures, towards others.
- Do not forget to pray and pay homage to Saint Christopher before leaving, and to give thanks afterwards.
- Pay attention to pedestrians.
- Do not commit homicide – keep your wits about you.
- Fasten your seatbelt – ensure your safety.
- Do not take unnecessary risks with speed.
- Do not endanger yourself and others.
- Assist those in need on the road.
- Observe the traffic code and respect the work of law enforcement.