A few months passed, and I had long forgotten the incident. Again, I was racing off to the airport, not paying attention, when Lyda cried out: “Look out for the red light!”

 

　　My face turned crimson, I started breathing hard, I grimaced—and then yelled: “Thank you!”I’m a long way from perfect, but I’m getting better. My suggestion is that you get in the habit of asking the important people in your life how you can do things better. And be ready for an answer. Some people may tell you things like “Look out for the red light.” or “You’re going too fast around the corner.”

 

　　When this happens, take a deep breath. Ask yourself:“What is the cost of listening to this?” Remember that there is possibly some potential benefit. Then just say:“Thank you.”