Close to where I live, new roundabouts are popping up. Have you been impacted by one yet?I was first introduced to roundabouts several years ago when I visited my brother Jayson in Manchester, England. There, at most intersections, roundabouts were present, and people seemed very comfortable maneuvering around them. When I inquired, Jayson informed me that roundabouts had been shown to reduce collisions at traffic intersections and greatly reduce fatalities.Checking online this week (US Dept. of Transportation), I learned that roundabouts are known for 1. Fewer crashes, 2. 90% fewer fatalities, and 3. 75% fewer injuries. This happens primarily due to drivers slowing down significantly at a roundabout.Roundabouts remind me of the discipline of ‘statio’ practiced by some spiritual guides. ‘Statio’ is the simple habit of stopping one thing, and pausing, before beginning another. This practice helps avoid the stresses that accompany those on the go nonstop. Things like intentionally:*Taking an hourly three-minute break from your computer and closing your eyes, or, looking out into nature, or, stretching your static muscles.*Calling or texting your spouse/child/parent/significant other once every three/four hours and saying that they’re on your mind and you love them.*Going on a five-minute walk when your annoyance level is rising.*Bowing your head in adoration and praise to God for being with you, even through the current volatile situation, etc. Could developing such ‘statio’ or roundabout practices can help us avoid major mental and relational crashes and/or fatalities? We’ll do well to listen to the ancient Bible address our postmodern problem: Those who wait on the Lord will have their strength renewed. Then they’ll soar on wings like eagles; they’ll run and not grow weary; they’ll walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31; emphasis mine) 😊—
Jeba Moses
