Derech Eretz Corner: OF SIDEWALKS.....and Scooters and Skateboards?

Derech Eretz, proper behavior, is applicable in all walks of life. Even sidewalks.

Have you ever been walking calmly down the street?

When a zigzagging scooter almost runs over your feet.

You just want to get safely from here to there.

It should not be a harrowing affair.

Walk on the right, pass to the left.

Keep your eyes up, be ever so deft.

Let others pass easily and don’t block the path.

Avoid distractions. Don’t incur wrath.

Sudden stops could cause collisions.

Think while you walk, and make good decisions.

Keep a respectable distance from others in transit.

So neither of you ends up “face to the granite.”

Avoid loud personal conversation.

Nobody needs “too much information.”

Don’t be a sidewalk “hog,“ (Keep to your own side),

Or an inhospitable “dog.“ (Smile or greet others.)

Always be thinking of the other fellow.

You are a human being, not a bowl of Jell-O.

HaShem guides your steps. Use them with Grace.

Being courteous with others will always “save face.“