Good Old Fashioned Human Decency

I recently read an article that really struck home with me.  In this day of technology overload, we often are quick to discard our manners.  We don't smile as easily, we don't hold the door as often, we don't offer to carry the elderly lady's bag of groceries up the stairs.  You get the picture.

This came screaming to the front of my mind today.  Today I was T boned while driving.

As soon as my car stopped sliding sideways and I was able to consciously verify my baby wasn't screaming in pain, I pulled over.  I quickly got out and went back to confirm that my baby, who rides directly behind me, was okay.  (The T bone was on the driver side.)  I then stood there waiting for the lady who hit me to come over.  She didn't.  I waved at her, and she shot back a nasty gesture.  Okayyyyy.

So.  Toting my toddler on my hip, I scramble to cross multiple lanes of traffic, dodging from island to island to cross the busy intersection.  As I get to the center island she starts shouting and gesturing at me.  I am so taken aback.

Let's get this clear.  You, dear lady, just T boned ME as I crossed an intersection.  As in it was YOUR fault.  I'm carrying a baby on my hip.  You don't even take the time to look at me in the face and ask, "Are you okay?  Is your BABY okay?" as I was just getting ready to do to you.

Nope.  Without  a pause, she launches into a tirade about how I was screaming along (I wasn't) and obviously ran a red light to hit her.

Yes, ma'am.  This morning when I woke up I thought to myself that today would definitely be the day to put my life and safety and that of my son on the line.  Definitely a top priority.  But I digress.

So.  The moral of my story.  When did we stop taking the time to check the safety and well being of another human being?  When did we stop taking the time to be kind?  Not just in this particular incident, but in our daily life?  Why?