Blue Cat was out driving* the other day and got cut off by another driver. They sped up, got in Blue Cat’s way, and made Blue Cat really mad. “What a jerk!” he thought, “They must be very rude and selfish!” And Blue Cat considered teaching them a lesson by getting in their way.
But then he had a thought – what was the basis for his assessment of the person who cut him off? Did he know them, or observed them before? Did they have a sign that said “I am getting in your way on purpose because I’m mean?” And Blue Cat had to answer “no” to all.
So the reason why Blue Cat was angry (and about to do something dangerous) had no basis in reality – it was just a story that Blue Cat had made up in his head. One that he would never be able to corroborate. So why not pick another story instead?
Blue Cat’s new story was that the other driver was rushing to work after getting his kids off to school – something he had to do a lot lately because his wife was not feeling well and he wanted to help her. And that his boss at work was having to cover for him when he was late – so he didn’t want to be late for work again this week.
Did Blue Cat know that story was true? Of course not, but it was just as valid as the first story about the rude, mean driver who didn’t care about anyone other than himself. And the new story changed how Blue Cat both felt and acted in the situation – Blue Cat was no longer angry, but was sad for the other driver and wished he could help out. And that made a big difference in Blue Cat’s day – he didn’t start it angry, but instead started the day looking for ways to help others who might be in need.
So Bue Cat’s advice today is for you to stop when there’s a situation before you make up a story that will make your (and others’) day worse. When there are no other facts, choose a good, helpful story over a mean, angry one. It won’t change the situation at all, but will change how your (and others’) day goes forward for the better.
And that’s Blue Cat’s view for today – let him know what you think in the comment section below.
*No – the state of Colorado does not issue drivers licenses to crocheted cats, even those as awesome as Blue Cat. But that’s not the point of the story – so let’s move on.
(c) William P Doyle, Jr 2024
Blue Cat's View 
That’s my trick too! I always imagine that maybe they are in a hurry because someone is sick or hurt, or they in the way because they are lost and confused. It doesn’t matter for the person who is impeding me, but it makes me feel better!