Yet, as many times as I've given out the bird, I must admit, I'm still completely shocked when I actually receive the gesture.* Take for example the other day: I was sitting at a light and when it turned green the car in front of me didn't move. So, I gave two gently taps of the horn to alert them to go. And what did I receive in return? Yep, the finger. And not just a quick finger raised in front of the rearview mirror inside the car. Nope, I got the entire arm extended out of the window and the finger raised for at least fifty yards. Again, I got the entire salute OUTSIDE OF THE WINDOW. Immediately, I felt myself sink inside my car, and then in miserable shame I muttered, "Geez mister, sorrrrryyy...." As the car sped off, I drove in silence wondering what I had done that warranted such a response? Had this guy just lost his job, and my horn was just the icing on the cake to a day that was most likely going to end in him driving off a cliff? Have I encountered this guy before on my bike and he was finally evening the score with his own bird? Or was I really in the wrong? Did he see the light and just needed a moment to finish that text to his son that read, "Son, I'm sorry for our disagreement this morning. I love you." Why did I ruin that moment?
So, I'm left with a quandary. Help me cyber world. Do I continue to give the finger to cars that cut me off and drive too close? Do I make them wonder why some girl on a little bike is declaring to the world that they are total jerks? Or do I refrain? And in the process, do I have to learn to take the bird - in order to not break the natural cycle of "give and receive?" Because if I stop, will that stop everyone from giving the bird? Will we then live in a world where no one is politely informed of their stupidity?
Wait, I think I just answered my own question. I have to go stretch out my arms and fingers.
* Even when it's completely justified.
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