FSM 296 DO
Becoming a Family Driver!
--Whether You Drive or Ride in a Vehicle, This Mag Is for You!
This FSM contains an amendment to the "Driving Rules" section of the "Fundamental Family Rules" of the Charter (see page 8).
Copyrighted May 1996, The Family, Zurich, Switzerland
Table of Contents:
Introduction by WS Staff
1
Prophecy from Dad on Driving--After the Austin Accident
2
Driving with Dad
2
Helpful Tips and Reminders for Safe Driving
4
Testimony of a Co-Pilot
5
Co-Pilot's Jobs and Responsibilities
5
The Co-Pilot's Checklist
6
Questions and Answers
6
Becoming a Family Driver
8
Requirements to Becoming a Family Driver
8
Driver's Training Reading List
9
Dad on Driving
10
The Family Drivers Test
13
Family Driving Certificate
16
What the People Say!
16
Answers to the Family Drivers Test
18
General Vehicle Maintenance Checklist
19
Fuel Consumption Chart
20
The Co-Pilot's Checklist
20
Introduction by WS Staff
After the Austin accident, Mama was concerned that we give the Family some counsel and instructions on the importance of safe driving. This was later confirmed in a prophecy from Dad, included below, which was the principle catalyst for this FSM.
As you read, please bear in mind that driving is a multi-faceted topic with innumerable rules and regulations one must be familiar with. This issue by no means covers all of these aspects.
It is understood that anyone who applies for a "Family Driving Certificate" (see page 16 of this FSM) is already in possession of a legal driver's license, and has successfully completed and passed the official, written, as well as driving examinations. For the above reasons, we did not feel that we had the time and space to review all that there is to know about driving.
"Driving with Dad" (see page 2) was a unique learning experience due to his faithful teaching, training and passing on to us all that he had learned during 50 years of driving. We are sharing our experiences with Dad with you as an example of how prayerful and careful he was when driving and how seriously he took it. However, we do not suggest you become back-seat drivers "just like Dad," as doing so could make some drivers uncomfortable and nervous. As mentioned, the responsibility of helping the driver be aware of safety, oncoming cars when turning, etc., generally falls on the "co-pilot," the person sitting in the front seat, next to the driver.
In some cases, some of the tips or suggestions in this mag may not be applicable to your situation. Each of you will have to seek counsel from others and be led of the Lord as to what is best for you.
In regards to driving, Mama recently commented: "It is more important to be a prayerful driver than it is to even be a careful one. You may be careful, but that's not enough, you need to also be prayerful. On the other hand, if you have a prayerful attitude, you will automatically be cautious and careful in your driving."
We pray that this FSM will be a help and blessing to you, and that you will have accident free driving, as you assume this serious responsibility and strive to drive in a very safe and prayerful manner.
God bless and keep you and yours under the shadow of His wings. We love you!
Prophecy from Dad on Driving--After the Austin Accident
(Dad speaking to Gabe:) "Son, you need to tell them what I have taught you about driving and how dangerous it is, and how they are going on the Devil's territory--all that I have taught you about driving, the dangers and the pitfalls. Didn't I sit in the back seat and constantly instruct you and teach you and guide you and pray for you as we went on even the shortest trips? Didn't I say that every time a car left the property I wanted to know? No car was allowed to leave until I was informed. Why? I knew how dangerous it was.
"Even during the times you weren't prayerful, I was praying for you, and I didn't rest at ease until the car made it home safely, because I knew how serious it was to be out on the Devil's territory. They need to know how I cautioned you drivers and how I was constantly praying for you while you were driving; how I was always looking and warning you and instructing the co-pilot to look both ways, and saying that four eyes are better than two. It's dangerous business! You know that, and you learned that from me, and they need to learn that.
"For as times wax worse and worse, the Devil is out to destroy the Lord's children. So they must be on guard, for it's dangerous business to be in vehicles on the Devil's territory. The Devil's imps are looking for ways to get the Lord's children. You must be on guard, you must be careful, you must be prayerful.
"Remember when we went out as a team, the Home got together and prayed for our safety and for our security and for our safekeeping. And when we pulled into the driveway after a trip, didn't we praise and thank the Lord for keeping us safe? I drove many years, so I knew what a dangerous mission it was to be a driver and be in a vehicle on those deadly roads. They need to learn too. They need to hear that. They need to be instilled with a healthy fear.
"So share the lessons you learned from me, and let this be a lesson for all, that others may fear. For the times are waxing worse and worse, and it's ever so important to keep your guard up and be even more prayerful, for the Enemy continues to walk about seeking whom he may devour. So watch out for those unguarded moments!" (End of prophecy.)
Driving with Dad
--By Gabe
(10:00 a.m.:) Beeeeeeeeep! Beeeeeeeep!
The intercom rings! We were very familiar with Dad's ring, as it was longer and more authoritative than those of the other members' of our household.
Gabe answers the intercom. "Gabe here."
"Hi, Son! How are you today?" Dad asks.
"Just fine, thank you."
"Are you busy today?"
"I'm available if you have a project!"
"Well, I've been thinking about going for a ride this afternoon to check out a certain area of town. Could you please have the car ready at four o'clock when I'm done with my paperwork?"
"Yes, Sir. We'll have it ready."
"Okay. Maybe Amy would like to go along as your co-pilot. Four eyes are always better than two," Dad reminds.
"Yes, Sir. She's available this afternoon."
"Okay, I'll see you at four. Please make sure Jeffrey checks the car out and that everything is in order."
"Yes, Sir. We'll do that."
(We always took driving with Dad very seriously, as one of our most important jobs here was preserving and caring for him. And going out on the Devil's territory has always been serious business to us.)
(1:30 p.m. Time for prayer requests after lunch:) Gabe says, "We'll be going out with Dad this afternoon. Could we please pray for a safe trip, and for the Lord to keep our security?"
One of the staff members prays for safety on the trip.
"Jeffrey, Dad asked if you could please check the car out after lunch so it will be ready for him to go at four o'clock," Gabe asks.
"Okay, no problem!" Jeffrey goes out to do his regular check on the car.
(There are certain things that we do each trip we go on, such as check the oil, the water, and visually check under the hood to make sure the hoses and belts are in good order and that nothing has come apart. We also do a visual check of all four tires, once accustomed to what they look like at the proper pressure, you can actually notice if they are under-inflated. We have a monthly checklist [see page 19] which we find helpful in keeping records of when different services are due.
(Even though we did our monthly checks, we would also make sure the different levels and the various lights and signals were okay, before Dad went on a trip.
(Dad liked to be a good testimony to the neighbors and others by keeping our car neat and clean at all times. Of course it wasn't always possible to wash the car every time before going out, but we did try to make sure that the front and rear windshields were clean and that the inside of the car was neat and tidy.)
(3:50 p.m.:) As usual, Dad is early, sitting in the car studying the maps while Gabe and Amy are preparing for the afternoon outing. By 4:00 we're all sitting in the car together. Dad asks, "Are your mirrors adjusted properly?"
"Yes, Sir, they're fine," answers Gabe.
"I've been studying the map and this is the area of town I'd like to go to. I would like to take this main highway. ... " Dad proceeds to explain to Gabe the route and roads he wants to travel. After a complete explanation of where we plan on going, Dad reaches forward (he usually sat in the back seat), puts his hand on Gabe's shoulder and says a short sincere prayer: "Lord, bless Gabe as he drives. Give him lots of wisdom and prayerfulness. Help him to go slow and not take any chances. We ask that You will bless and protect and keep us sheltered under Thy wings. Bless Amy and help her to assist Gabe and his driving. In Jesus' name."
We proceed to pull out of the driveway. "Clear on my side," Amy says. (Dad always expected the co-pilot to assist the driver by saying "clear right" or "clear left" when there were no cars coming from that direction, especially when turning onto a main street.)
Dad in the back seat says, "There's a car coming on the left, so it's clear to go after the blue car." Gabe then pulls out after the blue car drives by. "We're not in a hurry, so let's take it slow and easy, Son," Dad comments.
"Yes, Sir," Gabe responds.
"Be sure to stay in the slow lane, Gabe. I've always tried to drive in the slow lane so that in the event of any engine trouble you can just pull over to the side of the road. Also, that's where the slower traffic is, and I prefer not to be in the lane where the traffic is going the fastest," Dad explains.
Suddenly a car starts to pull out of a side street just ahead of us. "Honk your horn, Son," exclaims Dad. Gabe honks the horn and immediately the car stops and lets us pass in front of him. "Don't be afraid to use your horn if you need it," says Dad. "Sometimes people don't see you coming and you need to let them know you're there! Thank You, Lord, for keeping us. Continue to protect and keep us as we go." (Dad would often pray and acknowledge the Lord like this during the entire time that we'd be out.)
As we drive Amy is assisting the driver by watching and praying and letting Gabe know when it's clear and helping him to keep on eye out for any possible hazards or dangers.
(4:00 p.m.:) The team has just pulled out. Mama calls everyone on the intercom and asks them to remember to pray for Dad and his team while they are out.
(6:00 p.m.:) After pulling into the driveway, Dad, Gabe and Amy thank the Lord for a safe trip and for keeping them while they were out. Dad says, "I like to not only pray for His help, but to be sure to praise and thank the Lord after He answers prayer as well."
Helpful Tips and Reminders for Safe Driving
1. Valid driver's license. You should have a valid driver's license that is recognized by the country you are driving in. The car's registration and ownership papers and insurance should be in order. You should know the name of the person the car is registered in, as well as have a power of attorney to drive the car, if it's required in the country you are in.
2. Emergency money. The driver should carry sufficient funds for gasoline and oil or any small emergency repairs, etc., that may arise.
3. Is your vehicle road-worthy? Does your vehicle meet safety standards? Is it in good running condition, as required by the Charter (see Driving Rules, page 129). Is the engine working properly, and does the vehicle have good tires, good brakes, etc.?
4. Don't be in a hurry! You should not drive if you are in a rushed spirit or are nervous and impatient. Pray, calm down and "squeeze, don't jerk!" Or ask someone else to drive, if possible.
5. Tired? If you are tired, please pull over and rest, or rotate with another capable driver, if available. Statistics show that as many as 30% of road accidents are caused by drowsy drivers.
6. Familiarize yourself with the vehicle you are driving. If you drive different vehicles, be sure you're familiar with the different controls on each one, and know how to use them, as these vary from car to car. For example, emergency flashers, turn signals, horn, high and low beams, windshield wipers, etc. Also be sure to know where the jack and tire iron are located and how to use them. (You should also have a spare tire.)
7. Caution for residential area driving. Drive especially slow in these areas, since you never know when a driver will suddenly pull out of a parking space, someone will dart across the street, or children will chase a ball from behind a parked car, etc.
8. Parking. When parking in town while doing business, be sure to park the car in a well-lit area in plain public view. If possible, it's best to park it within eyesight of where you will be. Valuables should not be visible, so as not to tempt anyone. The trunk is a good place to store your goods, but try to do so discreetly, or even before you arrive at your destination, so as not to advertise that you are hiding valuables in your trunk.
9. Eyesight and eye protection. Drivers who wear glasses should make sure that their prescription is still accurate. The ones who have never had glasses should be sure that they don't need them.--When in doubt, get your eyes checked! On bright days it's good to wear sunglasses to minimize eye strain, and give you a better view of the road ahead. You should also use the sun visors when needed.
10. Hands on the steering wheel. You should try to keep both hands on the steering wheel at "10 o'clock and 2 o'clock" positions (for greater control) when possible. Refrain from eating or drinking while driving.
11. Unusual smells or sounds? Be sure to check out any persistent unusual smells or sounds in the car, as well as any warning lights on the dashboard that come on. Don't ignore them, as something may be wrong. If it is necessary and safe to do so, stop and see if you can locate the problem.
12. Be mindful of large vehicles. Big trucks or buses are harder to maneuver and need more room to turn or stop. So be sure to keep a safe distance while either in front or behind them so they'll have lots of space to operate in.
13. Convoying. When convoying (traveling in a group of cars), each car should know the ultimate destination, as well as have a phone number they can call in case of separation.
14. Review the driving rules. Know the driving rules and road signs of the country you're in. When you move to a new country, it's best not to drive until you become familiar with the rules and signs. You should also be aware of the driving habits of that country. (Some countries have very poor driving habits.--This does not mean that you should follow them just because they are common there, but you should be aware of them so you can be more vigilant when driving.)
15. Exiting a freeway. When exiting a freeway, place yourself in the slow lane ahead of time. Do not veer off suddenly at the last min-ute, as you may endanger yourself, your passengers and others on the freeway. It's better to simply bypass the exit if you don't have enough time to safely turn off. Get off at the next exit and make your way back. It's slower, but safer!
16. Driving at dusk. Turn on your headlights as soon as the daylight starts to wane. Don't wait until darkness falls and the street lights come on. Many accidents occur during dusk due to reduced visibility and depth perception. Some countries even require lights to be on at all times as a safety precaution.
17. Keep windshield clear. Be sure your windshield wipers work well and do not leave a streaked window. Also check that the window defrosters work well and keep your windshield clear.
18. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. An easy rule to follow is the "three second rule." No matter what speed you are driving, you can visually "mark" a spot where the car in front of you passes, and you should be far enough behind the car that you have time to count at least three seconds before your car passes the same spot.
19. Cold weather warm-up. If you are in a very cold climate, be sure you let your car warm up well before driving off. It can be hard on the engine if you drive when it's still cold. If it's too cold, the car could stall when you are driving, leaving you in a dangerous position on the road.
20. Never drink alcoholic beverages and drive. Even one drink can dull your judgment! If you are in a situation where people are drinking and a group of people must be driven home afterwards, be sure to have a "designated driver" who does not drink at all.
Testimony of a Co-Pilot
The co-pilot's job is a very important one, in that he or she is also responsible for the safety and well-being of the vehicle and passengers, even though he or she is not the one actually driving.
The following is a reaction from a staff member telling of his experience shortly after joining our team: "When I joined the staff, I didn't drive at first. As you know, Dad was very concerned about new drivers, and even though I had driven for many years, he wanted to be sure that I was prayerful and careful when driving. So I often went as a co-pilot. One time we were in a small parking lot and the driver backed out of the parking space and bumped into a low cement pole which he did not see, and it caused a dent in the bumper. At the time I wasn't paying much attention, as I happened to be glancing at a book.
"When we got home and Dad and Mama found out that I was the partner and that I wasn't watching, they corrected me for it. I felt like I was being held even more responsible than the driver! At first I was offended, as I felt that the driver should have been held responsible for the accident, but they considered that I was just as responsible, if not more so. But now I know they were right, because if I had been doing my job, that little accident would never have happened. They even told me that when the driver is backing up, if it's at all possible, the co-pilot should get out and look behind the vehicle, making sure that all is clear. Needless to say, after that experience I started to become a much more active co-pilot!"
Co-Pilot's Jobs and Responsibilities
1. Prayer. Make sure you have good prayer before taking off, and that the driver is not in a hurried or rushed spirit. Also remember to pray while you're out, not just at the beginning. Be a faithful prayer warrior! Dad would often quietly pray and praise the Lord while we were driving, which in turn would help us to be more prayerful as well. It's not the time to be foolish or too light-hearted.
2. Fasten seat belts. Check to see that everyone has their seat belts on, including those in the back seat if your car is equipped with back seat belts. Car seats (for children) should be securely fastened and infants safely strapped in.
3. Map reader. Sometimes, when the planned route is through unfamiliar territory, a co-pilot can be a big help by finding the best course on the map and directing the driver to the destination. Be sure to give the driver plenty of warning before he needs to turn. For example, instead of saying, "You need to turn right on the next street," try to give him advance warning by telling him, "You'll need to turn right three streets down." This also gives the driver time to position himself in the proper lane for the turn. Don't shout out or suddenly motion to the driver to turn or stop unless it is an emergency. There could be a car behind you that won't have time to react. It can also startle the driver or cause him to over-react and jerk, which is dangerous.
4. Noise monitor. The noise level in the car should not be so loud that it distracts the driver. If the people in the back seat are having a conversation, if at all possible it's best that the co-pilot not be involved in it, so he can concentrate on being a help to the driver. Loud music can also be distracting.
5. "Eyes on the road." Dad has said, "Four eyes are better than two!" The co-pilot needs to be on the lookout so as to be able to point out any possible hazards that the driver might not notice, such as pedestrians crossing the street, vehicles pulling out in front of you, merging traffic, potholes, traffic light changes, signs, double-checking when it's clear to turn, or whatever! There are many things to look out for, so the co-pilot's job is essential! Dad also expected the co-pilot to say "clear right" or "clear left" when it was clear for the driver to make a turn or merge with traffic. The idea is to be a help to the driver, but be careful not to be an annoyance by overdoing it.
6. Backing up. Sometimes it's necessary to actually get out of the vehicle and help the driver back up. This is especially true when parking in a tight space or backing up with a van or large vehicle. Dad said: "When you're backing up with a large vehicle you should not only use the side and rear-view mirrors, but ask your co-pilot to get out there to guide you. Even if you can see out there through the mirrors, you cannot see what is below the level of the back window; that's impossible. It could be a child or anything small that you wouldn't know was there.
"It's best for your co-pilot to hop out, stand on that passenger side that you cannot see and guide you, to tell you, 'One foot, 6 inches, 3 inches, stop!' It's just a matter of being extremely cautious, and not taking any chances."
7. Looking out for traffic signs. When necessary, you should remind the driver about upcoming traffic signs, stop signs, etc. It's possible that the driver might not notice or see a traffic sign, so as co-pilot, it's your job to make sure he's aware of them. You should also double-check that the driver is driving within the speed limit and remind him if he's not.
8. Be loving! Last but not least, stay loving and sweet! Remember that you and the driver are a team, and you need to work together in love and unity, and it's vital that you have good communication. So if you need to bring something to the driver's attention, be sure to do so in a calm and loving way. For example, if you think he's driving too fast, instead of "Slow down, you're driving too fast!" you might want to say something like "I think the speed limit here is such-and-such."
The Co-Pilot's Checklist
At the end of this FSM on page 20, you will find a review of the main points the co-pilot should be aware of, which you could photocopy and put in your glove compartment as a reminder. If you like, you could put the song "Now Go with Us, Precious Savior" on the back of the co-pilot reminder card.
Questions and Answers
1. Is it OK to talk to the driver while he's driving?
Answer: It's difficult to give a "black and white" answer on this. Certain situations require the driver's full concentration, such as when driving in bad weather, during busy city traffic, when exiting from an expressway, etc. During times like these it's best not to talk to the driver, so he can concentrate on his driving and you can concentrate on being a good co-pilot. However, if you're driving on the highway for a long stretch with good weather conditions, then it's probably good to talk to the driver to make sure he stays alert. Generally speaking, avoid discussing intense or emotional topics that could unduly distract the driver. Sometimes when driving long distances in the evening or at night, Dad would talk to us to make sure we wouldn't fall asleep.
2. Is it OK to drive at night or in the rain, snow or fog?
Answer: It depends on the situation. Dad would discourage us from driving at night unless it was unavoidable, so we would plan our shopping and other trips out accordingly, to ensure that we were back before dark. (In countries located in the far northern or southern hemispheres, where there isn't much daylight during the winter months, it may not always be possible to avoid being out occasionally after sunset, so if you do have to drive during evening hours, please be extra prayerful.)
In some Third World countries it can be dangerous to drive at night as there could be large potholes or even animals like cows and horses on the road, which are very difficult to see when it's dark! So be Spirit-led about when you should go out.
If it was raining hard or the weather conditions were very poor, we would often wait a few hours to see if the weather would clear up, or sometimes we'd cancel our trip out till the following day if possible. Of course, in some countries it rains a lot, and if you only went out when it wasn't raining you probably wouldn't get much done!
3. Should I attend a driving school to learn how to drive?
Answer: That's entirely up to you and your Home. In most countries it would be advantageous, as driving schools can be very thorough and do teach you a lot about driving, as well as the different road rules, street signs, etc. They are usually fairly expensive, but perhaps you could provision the tuition. Nevertheless, it's up to you to decide.
4. Do all the passengers in the vehicle need to wear seat belts, even those in the back seat?
Answer: Yes, and if your vehicle is equipped with seat belts in the back seat, they should be used also. In many countries it is required by law that all passengers use seat belts, and even if it's not, we feel it is a good safety device that should be used. Some vans and older vehicles are not equipped with seat belts in the rear, but it is possible to have them installed; however, make sure they are securely fastened to the body of the car.
5. What type of insurance should I get?
Answer: Insurance policies vary from country to country. Most insurance companies will suggest you get "full coverage." This usually covers any scratches to your vehicle, theft, fire, flood, etc., etc. This, although being the safest, is usually not necessary and can be quite expensive.
Your first priority should be to ascertain that you have sufficient insurance to protect you financially should you cause a motor vehicle accident in which someone is injured or killed. This is usually known as "Third Person Liability" (TPL).
Most countries have a minimum amount of TPL that every vehicle owner is required by law to carry. However, in reality it may not be sufficient to protect you. Let's take a hypothetical situation. Say you live in a Western industrialized nation that requires that all vehicle owners have a legally required minimum TPL of $50,000. You decide that you'll save money and purchase only that required minimum. You are subsequently involved in an accident and found to be at fault. The breadwinner of a family is in the other vehicle and is permanently injured in the accident, so that he can no longer work. The court says that you are liable to pay him $600,000 for lost wages over the next 20 years, as well as his legal costs of $50,000. Your TPL insurance would only cover $50,000 of that sum, and you, as the owner of the vehicle, would be responsible to pay the balance, $600,000! You could possibly be legally obligated to give much of any future income to pay this sizable debt off.
So as you can see, getting only the bare minimum TPL required by law can be potentially dangerous and an extremely expensive bargain. It is usually best to get more than the bare minimum, although how much more is up to you and your faith.
Keep in mind that circumstances, conditions and laws vary from country to country. What may be generous coverage in a developing country may be woefully inadequate in the industrialized West. So familiarize yourself thoroughly with your particular situation, ask the advice of consumer groups or automobile associations, if possible, and at the least, be sure to have adequate TPL insurance so that you are completely covered in case you cause a serious accident in which someone is hurt or killed.
Once you have determined how much TPL coverage you wish to purchase, then you can decide on the other areas of coverage. Depending on your situation, you may want to get some sort of coverage to protect you in case of theft, fire, flood, vandalism, etc.
6. Do I have to fill in the vehicle maintenance checklist (see page 19) if I do the daily checks?
Answer: No, you don't even have to use these charts. They are simply a suggestive sample of what has been helpful for us. Dad would ask when the oil was changed last, or what condition the brakes were in, had they been checked recently, etc., etc.? All of these details were written down so all we had to do was refer to the list. The driver was not always the one who was responsible for the vehicle and was not expected to know or remember these details if the vehicle deacon was keeping track of them. At those times, the list was very handy, for the driver's reference.
You may also find a checklist to be a blessing should you move to a new Home and have to pass on the responsibility of vehicle maintenance to someone else. The new deacon would not only know at a glance what needs to be done next, but would also have a history of what has been done, should he have to refer to it. Yet another way that faithfully kept records can be beneficial is in the event of selling the vehicle. The buyer will often ask if regular servicing was kept up, and to be able to produce a log, as well as receipts of repairs, is not only a good testimony of stewardship but will likely help your sale.
Becoming a Family Driver
Dad said: "Let me tell you, the driver's seat is one of the most responsible and dangerous positions in the world! Take it seriously, and ask God for help! Use love!" (ML #155:22.)
Requirements to Becoming a Family Driver (Amendment 11 of the "Fundamental Family Rules")
(The following five requirements for drivers constitutes an amendment [#11]. This amendment will become point E, pg.130, in the "Driving Rules" section of the "Fundamental Family Rules.")
1. Read this entire FSM and the Letters on the required reading list that are available to you. (See pages 9-10 of this FSM.)
2. Take and pass the written test on page 13 of this FSM.
3. A new (or inexperienced) driver* must complete 20 hours of supervised driving** with a competent Family driver, and must satisfy his or her assessment of their driving. (An already experienced driver who has a valid driver's license and considerable Family driving experience, and who receives a recommendation from two of the Home teamworkers that he/she is a safe, competent driver, does not have to meet the 20-hour requirement.)
4. Two members of the Home teamwork need to sign your Family Driving Certificate.
5. Once you have received a Family Driving Certificate, a simple majority vote of the Home's members in each Home you go to will then enable you to become a driver for that Home.*** Remember, their lives will be in your hands when driving!
(*Note about "new drivers": The term "new driver" not only applies to those who have just recently acquired a driver's license, which would generally be a senior teen or YA, but also those older who may have had a driver's license for a number of years but due to lack of actual driving experience may not be a qualified driver. In such a case a Home may decide that any inexperienced drivers in their Home need to have some hands-on experience before they can drive a vanload of kids or take witnessing teams out, etc., and therefore vote in the same requirements that a new driver is expected to meet before getting their card, that is 20 hours driving time plus approval from the teamworkers.
(**Note about supervised driving time: The supervised driving time would not need to be official "driver training," as our Homes probably don't have time for this in their busy schedules, but can simply be on-the-job practice; say an 18-year-old doing the provisioning pickups, with a licensed driver in the car, who could instruct the new driver during the course of the day's driving. However, we do not recommend that new or inexperienced drivers drive a van full of people before getting their Family Driving Certificate.)
(***Note about Homes approving individual drivers: While we are stipulating that two Home teamworkers and a competent Family driver can approve a "new driver" after he or she have had their 20 hours of driving experience, the Home itself should also be in general agreement with the individual driving. Any voting member in a Home has the right to bring up in a Home Council meeting the subject of driving and/or a specific driver if they feel he doesn't drive safely, to be discussed and/or voted on by the Home. In other words, those driving with a designated Home driver should have faith in the driver's abilities, and if they don't, they have every right to bring it up for discussion in the Home.
(Here are a few excerpts from the Charter on the subject: "Only prayerful, careful, and safe drivers should be permitted to drive. ... Some people who have valid driver's licenses really aren't very good drivers. So if someone is not prayerful and/or careful or safe, then the Home may vote to revoke their driving privilege, at least for a given period of time.
("If a driver causes an accident, they should lose their driving privilege for a period of time, which should be decided by the Home's voting members. ... Any driver who causes an accident, or who has to be repeatedly warned about reckless or unsafe driving, including speeding or not tuning in to his or her driving, should have his or her driving ability questioned" [Charter, "Driving Rules," points 8.A, D, pages 129,130].
(As for the right to bring up in the Home the subject of driving, it is every individual's right to "bring up any matter in the appropriate Home Council meeting and have it brought to a vote. The matter must be discussed and voted on within 15 days" [Charter, "Rights of the Individual: Within the Home," point 3.D, page 17]. The Charter goes on to state: "You have the right to pray, discuss with others, and debate any issues in your Home Council meetings before voting on a course of action. Under the Election Rules, which are found in the "Fundamental Family Rules," unless specified otherwise, when a vote is taken on any matter, the majority rules. So if over 50% of the Home's voting members agree with something, then it is passed" [Charter, "Basic Rights of Individual Members," point 2.B, page 12].)
Driver's Training Reading List
"Have Faith Will Travel" (ML #150, Vol. 1)
"Trailer Driving" (ML #812-20, Vol. 7)
"Roadside Repairs" (ML #812-21, Vol. 7)
"What Every Driver Should Know," Parts 1-6 (ML #851, Vol. 7)
"Back in the Saddle" (ML #1024, Vol. 9)
"No Car?--Try Public Transport" (ML #1605, BK 14)
"The Chariots of Fire" (ML #2540, GN 399)
"Automobiles and Speed Demons" (ML #2541, GN 399)
"Dad the Backseat Driver," Part 1 (FNENC, pg.1079)
"Dad the Backseat Driver," Part 2 (FNENC, pg.1105)
"Dad the Backseat Driver," Part 3 (FNENC, pg.1108)
"Check Your Driving Habits" (FNENC, pg.1209)
"Automobiles--Tips and Tidbits" (FSM 17, pg.299)
"Driving" (GT1, pg.793)
"Car Maintenance Tips" (HH4, pg.540)
"Auto ABC's--Changing a Flat" (HH4, pg.545)
"Becoming a Family Driver," (FSM 296).
Local Road Safety and Driver's Manual
Dad on Driving
--Quotes Compiled by WS Staff
Prayerfulness
I think you can even be anointed and Spirit-led in driving a car! ... You're thinking and praying about your driving and asking God for wisdom, and He can inspire you! (ML #328:42).
The best way to avoid or prevent accidents is to pray without ceasing. Keep close to the Lord and constantly claim the protection of the Lord, always asking the Lord to keep you, and bless and protect you.--Because lots of things can happen that are totally beyond your control, but not the Lord's.
So the main thing to do is to live close to the Lord and trust Him and avoid the conditions under which these things can happen as much as you possibly can. Avoid taking any chances with anything. Avoid those conditions so that it can't happen. If there's maybe a chance of only one in a thousand that the conditions will cause an accident, avoid them. The Devil will take advantage of the situation if he can, especially if you're not real cautious, so why let him have the chance? Stay close to the Lord and in His will and obey His Word--and use your head and a little common sense.--These are the best preventatives! God bless and keep you! (ML #353:333,400).
Always pray earnestly before you start on a trip, and pray every moment while you are driving ... "Men ought always to pray and not to faint" (Luke 18:1). "Pray without ceasing" when you're mobile, because it's dangerous business and it requires a lot of prayer and a lot of protection from the Lord! (1Thes.5:17).
So you had better be obedient and follow these instructions and all the warnings we've given you and this whole series on mobility. Be very prayerful and very careful and very mindful of your driving and constantly praying, whether driving or camping or even sleeping!--I even pray in my sleep sometimes!--And stay mighty close to the Lord and obedient and in His will, or He can give you some pretty severe spankings sometimes for your being careless or disobedient or slothful or neglectful and just plain lazy and not taking care of things as you should! (ML #1024:79,82).
Driving Safety Tips
Driving Safety: They say that the greatest number of fatal accidents occur out on the highway, and that 75% of all auto accidents are caused by rear-end collisions--people following too closely!
Speed kills! High or excessive speed multiplies your chances of getting killed many times more than slower speed does. You can control a car fairly well at lower speeds of 40-50 kph (25-30 mph), but at speeds above that you cannot stop or swerve quickly enough to avoid anything because the inertia of your momentum causes a car hurtling along at a high speed to continue in the same direction no matter what. The heavier the car, the harder it is to stop or swerve, because in either case you're apt to turn over.
If you are driving at about 80-90 kph (50-55 mph) you still have some chance of being able to slow down quickly, if the emergency is not too close. For example, you go around a curve and suddenly there's a table and a chair sitting out in the middle of the highway. Have you ever had that happen? I have! Somebody just went around the same curve and lost them off the top of their car! But at speeds above 80-90 kph it's virtually impossible to control the car.
Speed and fast driving kill! It's much more difficult to avoid obstacles, to stop or to swerve, to avoid problems at high speeds. So drive reasonably and moderately. The auto routes are wide enough and fast-moving enough that you're not apt to hit anything unless you have a blowout.
Blowouts: If you have a blowout, don't suddenly slam on the brakes. That's one of the worst things you can do. Let the car kind of roll to a stop or slow down, and help it with the brakes, but not too suddenly. If the blown-out tire is to the left it will pull you to the left, and a right one will pull you to the right.
If you keep a firm grip on the wheel when you have a blowout, your car will hardly swerve at all. It feels just like a giant grabbed your steering wheel and tried to turn it out of your grip, to the left or to the right! Try to keep a good grip on the wheel, slow down and get onto the shoulder if possible. Best of all, pray to God and keep good tires on your vehicle and in good enough condition so that you don't have any blow-outs! (ML #1312:37-42). (Editor's note: A good reason to keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times! Keep your best tires on the front wheels of your vehicle, as blowouts in the front tires are harder to control.)
Accidents, Carelessness and Obedience
Rapid transportation kills more people than anything else! Man's inventions and so-called productions, his mechanized industrial productions, are all death, dead and death-dealing, all of them! So when man starts willfully following his own way and going the Devil's way and building all these things that God never planned and never ordained and never will and never designed for man, but the Devil designed to destroy man, man is set on a self-destructive course of total destruction! (ML #373:63).
I don't think accidents happen to a Christian without a reason. It's like catching a cold, you're either careless or you didn't watch your step or you didn't avoid the conditions that cause accidents or catching colds, and so you either caught a cold or you caused an accident.
Accidents do not happen--they are caused--and if you avoid the causes of accidents then you won't have any accidents. The rest, of course, God has to do, because the Devil can attack you and do a lot of things to try to cause harm. But we've gone a long time without any serious accidents.
Accidents are usually caused through carelessness, lack of watchfulness, lack of caution. The way to avoid accidents is to avoid the conditions that cause them. The way to avoid accidents is to prevent the conditions which make them possible. The way to avoid accidents is to make it impossible for them to happen.
It's like the story about the chauffeurs who applied for a job for this rich man. The test he put all the chauffeurs through was to see how near they could drive to the edge of this cliff or this precipice safely. So each of these expert drivers took his limousine and they drove it as close as they could to the edge very cleverly and skillfully and carefully without falling clear over. Finally, one guy got in, and when he started up the limousine he veered way over in the opposite direction from the precipice and drove as far from the edge as he possibly could. The rich man said, "You've got the job! That's how to drive safely close to the edge--don't drive close to the edge!"
So you prevent accidents by making it impossible for them to happen by so totally avoiding the conditions or circumstances under which they could happen that they can't happen (ML #353:317,318,322,323,327).
Thank the Lord, He takes care of us no matter what; even if we die we go to be with the Lord. But at the same time, as I've said before, you don't want to lose your life of usefulness for the Lord by being careless and losing it too soon!--And go to all that trouble to have children and rear them and take care of them and get them to where they're just beginning to be useful to the Lord, old enough to stand and sing and help you in the Lord's work, and then lose them through some foolish carelessness of your own neglect and violation of the rules!
I'm just reminding you once again of this because of some reports we've had of various people's problems and difficulties with people's trailers. So may the Lord bless and keep you and help you to be more cautious and prayerful and obedient in keeping these rules that we've given you and following this advice that we have so laboriously passed on to you through great labors and a whole long book of instructions! Let's hope that you are more cautious and prayerful in the future and that you don't have any more of these troubles of problems or accidents. In Jesus' name. Amen. PTL!
You should do all you can do first of all, and then whatever you can't do, the Lord will do. But if you're careless about what you should be doing, you can't very well expect the Lord to make up for your carelessness and your foolishness, your disobedience! He may just let you have an accident to teach you a lesson to be more careful and prayerful and attentive and obedient and mindful of the things which you should be attending to (ML #1024:77-78,80).
The Enemy is always ready to attack you at any unguarded moment. You must be particularly prayerful and careful. You must pray, beloved, as a foreign missionary on a foreign field in unfamiliar circumstances and with unknown dangers; you must pray desperately all the time, every moment, constantly if you expect to be spared from troubles caused by the Enemy.
"Men ought always to pray and not to faint" (Luke.18:1), God's Word says. And He says, "Pray without ceasing!" (1Thess.5:17). "Watch and pray" (Mat.26:41), and He didn't say that for no reason. He knew you would need it and you need to pray, and it's one way the Lord has of trying to keep you close to Him and in His presence continually, constantly dependent upon Him and His protection and His provision.
Beloved, if ever you learn to pray, you should learn to pray on the mission field, and if you haven't, you should start right now, praying desperately for protection for you and your family and your helpers and your equipment and your home and everything! Remember, you believe in prayer as much as you pray!--Amen? GBAKY praying--constantly!--IJN, amen (ML #1208:80-82).
"He that is faithful in a few things shall be made ruler over many things," because he will be faithful in many things too (Mat.25:23). But if you're unfaithful in these small things, seemingly small things, careless about them, you may find out that you wind up being unfaithful in big things--in big times and big events when you really need them--they're apt to fail you because you failed them (ML #1024:81).
Public Transportation
I got along without a car for 10 years and I still enjoy it, believe it or not! It makes you walk more and saves you a lot of money and worry, parking worries, and it really costs less in the long run. Once we left our car behind we got along very well, at least where there was suburban transportation, trains, buses, etc. Taking buses you get to enjoy the scenery, but I wouldn't say that you don't always worry about the driving! (Maria: You do a lot of praying!)
The bus driver is too far away from you, but the taxi driver, you figure you're paying him enough so you can tap him on the shoulder and say, "Slowly, please slow down!" I'd insist, I'd say, "I pay more, you drive less fast!" One of my favorite sayings got around town [in Tenerife] with the taxi drivers, and almost as soon as I'd climb into the taxi they'd quote it to me right away!: "Ah! Yes, Don David! Slowly, slowly, if you drive more slowly you live longer!" With the ones that would just sometimes refuse, I'd warn them, "If you don't slow down, no tip!"--And if they didn't slow down I'd just pay the fare and no tip! (ML #1312:44-45).
MORE THOUGHTS ON DRIVING
(Good Thots, page 793, "Driving":)
An Anglican clergyman has suggested suitable hymns for drivers who have the urge to speed:
At 75 miles an hour: "Nearer, My God, to Thee."
At 85 miles an hour: "When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder, I'll Be there."
At 95 miles an hour: "Lord, I'm Coming Home."
A tree is something that will stand by the side of the road for fifty years and then suddenly jump in front of a driver.
Drive with care. Life has no spare.
Most accidents are caused by motorists who drive in high [gear] while their minds are in neutral.
If you think a seat belt is uncomfortable, you've never tried a stretcher!
An automobile can help you see the world, but it's up to you to decide which world!
A reckless driver is seldom reckless for very long.
Many people drive their automobiles as if they were rehearsing for an accident.
Every year thousands of American motorists discover that their car lasted them a lifetime.
A telephone pole never hit an automobile in self-defense.
Sleeping at the wheel is a good way to keep from growing old.
You should drive your car as if your family were in the car.
Drive carefully! Motorists can be recalled by their Maker.
Shrink your speed and stretch your life.
Safe driving will keep your car out of the junkyard and your body out of the graveyard.
It is simply remarkable how the Apostle Paul covered so much territory and accomplished so much without a car.
Drive sensibly. The chance-taker is the accident-maker.
Daydreams at the steering wheel lead to nightmares in the hospital.
A driver is safest when the roads are dry ... but the road is safest when the driver is dry.
It takes thousands of nuts to construct an automobile, but only one nut to scatter it all over the road.
Caution is one automobile accessory you can't buy.
A railroad crossing is a place where it's better to be dead-sure than sure-dead.
It is better to be careful a thousand times than killed once.
The Family Drivers Test
(Note: There is only one correct answer. Simply check the appropriate box. In some cases, a "wrong" answer contains a Bible verse. This in no way implies that that verse is not applicable in other situations. Although valid points are mentioned, it does not always indicate that that is the appropriate answer. Passing grade is 90%, or maximum of two wrong answers.)
1. Should the driver refrain from talking?
a. Absolutely, at all times!
b. No driving situation ever warrants such restriction.
c. When driving in heavy traffic or with a car full of passengers, it is wise to do so.
2. What would you consider the three most important things to remember when setting out to drive?
a. 1) Make sure you have enough money for gasoline; 2) A fun buddy to go with; and 3) A good music tape to listen to.
b. 1) Have desperate prayer, acknowledging the Lord for His safety and protection; 2) Make sure that the oil, water and gasoline are at the proper levels; and 3) You should have the itinerary planned and be equipped with maps if in unfamiliar territory.
c. 1) You must obey all traffic rules and regulations at all times; 2) Be fully aware of first aid procedures; and 3) Be familiar with the accident declaration forms and know how to fill one out if needed.
3. If you suddenly feel ill or very tired while driving, you should:
a. Have another competent driver replace you; if none is available, stop at the next nearest place to rest and/or do what is necessary.
b. Immediately claim the verse: "As they went, they were healed" and proceed by faith.
c. Call home and ask for prayer, and then endure hardness as a good soldier, and hope it'll pass.
4. Should you and your passengers wear seat belts?
a. Only if required by law.
b. It's according to your faith.
c. Yes, at all times.
5. Assuming your vehicle isn't in proper running order and you presently do not have the funds to get it fixed, what would be your course of action?
a. Abstain from driving until the problem is corrected. Ask the Lord to supply the funds or provision the repair.
b. Be extremely prayerful and drive very slowly until you have the time and money to fix it.
c. Take the back roads and avoid heavy traffic so as not to be a hazard should the car sputter and/or stall.
6. When driving a borrowed vehicle, what would you consider the primary things you should be familiar with?
a. The engine size and its power rating, tire pressure, how to change the oil, and the basic mechanics of the car should you have a breakdown.
b. Know how to adjust and operate the mirrors, seats, windows and car stereo, if so equipped.
c. Be familiar with all dashboard instruments and gauges; know where to find and how to operate emergency flashers, turn signals, windshield wipers, lights, etc. Be in possession of all required documents, know the legal name of the owner, and be able to contact him or her, if necessary.
7. If you are planning to drive in a new country, you should:
a. Adopt the practices and driving habits of the people of the land.
b. Familiarize yourself with new traffic signs, as well as any and all driving code differences.
c. Simply proceed in a cautious and prayerful manner until you become aware of any changes that may exist.
8. The right to assist, offer suggestions and correction is only reserved for the co-pilot.
True.
False.
9. You are driving in heavy traffic on a highway, in the lane furthest removed from the next exit. You suddenly notice the exit which you had planned to take but find yourself in the wrong lane. You should:
a. Not attempt to take this exit, as doing so would endanger the lives of your passengers as well as your own.
b. Come to a sudden stop if safe to do so, wait for the traffic to clear so that you can safely switch lanes.
c. Immediately turn on your emergency flashers and ask your co-pilot to stick his head out the window and make hand motions to indicate to other drivers that you intend to take the next exit.
10. On your way to an appointment you find yourself somewhat delayed. The best thing to do is:
a. Pray extra hard for the Lord's protection as you will have to take risks to get there on time.
b. Not worry, as people usually wait when we are late.
c. Stop and call the person you're meeting and inform them of your delay.
11. You are quite upset about something. Unless it's an emergency and there is no other driver, it may be best not to drive while in this state.
True.
False.
12. The best hand positions on the steering wheel are as follows:
a. left hand at 9 o'clock, right hand at 3 o'clock.
b. left hand at 10 o'clock, right hand at 2 o'clock.
c. left hand at 8 o'clock, right hand at 4 o'clock.
13. Defensive driving is:
a. To always insist on your right of way when you indeed have it.
b. Anticipating the moves of other drivers.
c. To be ready to defend your rights if yelled or honked at.
14. When driving a passenger prone to car sickness, be sure to:
a. Drive slower, especially when on winding roads.
b. Make an effort to take off and stop as smoothly as you can.
c. Not depend on them to read the map while driving.
d. All of the above.
15. Driving and listening to music or Word on headphones is permitted:
a. Only on a straight stretch of road with very little traffic.
b. Only during daylight hours, when there is good weather and safe driving conditions.
c. Under no circumstances.
16. If your vehicle broke down right after a bend in the road and you could not drive it off the road, what would be the first thing to do?
a. Open the hood and hope and pray that you can locate and fix the problem quickly.
b. Ask all the passengers to get out of the car to a safe location in case of a rear-end collision from an unsuspecting approaching vehicle. Immediately set up your emergency triangle or other such device as far back as is safe for someone to come to a gradual stop--someone could stay with the triangle and use "slow down" hand motions. Pray as you go, as the timing of this safety measure is vital.
c. Honk the horn and have someone stand out in the road to alert approaching traffic.
17. Preventative maintenance and faithfully doing the regular check-ups and services, may prevent a major breakdown in the future.
True.
False.
18. Tail-gating (following too closely) is only dangerous at high speeds or on wet roads.
True.
False.
19. Although whole-hearted prayer at the start of a journey is absolutely necessary, it should not be the only time you pray when you travel.
True.
False.
20. An oncoming vehicle's high beams shine directly into your eyes, somewhat blinding you, what should you do?
a) Keep your eyes on the side of the road where you are driving, as this will be your guide to keep you on the road and in your lane.
b) Keep your eyes straight ahead till the car passes you and you regain your vision.
c) Hold up your hand to shield your eyes from the bright lights until the car passes.
* * *
THE FAMILY'S CERTIFICATE OF APTITUDE FOR SAFE DRIVING
________________________ has successfully completed the requirements for becoming a safe Family driver. He/she pledges to remain in a prayerful spirit at all times while driving, fully realizing and assuming the important responsibility that it is. He/she therefore qualifies as a Family driver for as long as he/she continues to meet the standard that is required in order to provide safe and pleasant transport to all passengers.
Signatures of:
Driver: ____________________________________________________________
Two Home teamwork members: __________________________________________
Date and place: _____________________________________________________
* * *
What the People Say!
From a 22-year-old in Brazil:
I would like to suggest that our shepherds test new local/area drivers to see if they're eligible to receive a Family driver's license. This license would then be valid in any Family Home worldwide.
I'm not suggesting that our young people shouldn't drive--I think they should, we need them--but before they do they should sincerely pray if that's what they should do. They should find God's will and ask Him if driving is their calling, just as we do for any other ministry or job. If there's a chance for them to learn and practice, then I think they should, because it's good that we all know how to drive, in case of an emergency. But they shouldn't come across as it being a right they have, because we're not talking about whether "rights" are being infringed upon or not, we're talking about the big responsibility of people's lives when driving a vehicle.
I think we should pray in our Homes about who should be the Home's "official drivers." In a normal company, not everyone drives. They have their drivers who are the only ones who are permitted to use the vehicles. Just because we have a driver's license, it shouldn't mean that we're official Home drivers, because there are many things we need to learn before we're qualified drivers.
From another 22-year-old:
I think that it could be well worth it to recommend that new drivers, be they YAs or adults, take a driving course. There are probably things like that available in a lot of countries where you can sign up and go to a night school or some special courses where you can learn these things, at least the head knowledge and the why's and wherefore's and the rules, for a pretty minimal price, or provision it. If it saves lives in the long run, it's definitely worth the price. I know that it really helped me.
Lessons from a Young Driver
(Editor's note: Not long ago one of our YA drivers in Japan was involved in quite a serious accident with another car. Thank the Lord, none of the people in either vehicle were hurt, but the Lord had many lessons for this YA driver. We feel that the lessons shared are very applicable for not only our YA drivers, but for all our drivers, as well as the accompanying riders.)
The accident happened as follows: We were driving along and on the road ahead was a construction truck fixing something on the side of the road. There was a car in front of us. However, because the Japanese roads are very narrow, this truck was taking up the whole of our lane and to the right of us was the oncoming traffic (in Japan you drive on the left side of the road). The car in front of ours was driving up to the truck, and as he started to pull out into the other lane to get around the truck, he didn't slow down and didn't give the oncoming car enough time. It turned out there was a car coming from the other direction, and when the car which was in front of me saw that he wasn't going to make it in front of the truck in time, he slammed on his brakes. Our driver was too close to the back of his car to stop so suddenly, and so rammed into him, putting a large dent into the back of his car. We had to pay the damages, which was quite costly.
(From the YA driver:) Although the driver in front of me made a mistake in judging the distance and time that he needed to pass the truck--being the rear vehicle, I was ultimately responsible and to blame, which is the case in most rear-end collisions. Like Grandpa says, "The Lord doesn't let bad things happen to one of His children unless there is some good that can come out of it." After the accident happened, I couldn't see the good that would come out of such a thing as that. But looking back now, I can see that the things that I learned from it were of great value! If I can learn these lessons and pass them on to others to learn from the experience that I had without having to go through the same ordeal, it's a blessing.
One of the things which the Lord showed me that I needed to learn has to do with leaning on the arm of the flesh in driving skills. Although I would pray before I went driving, I wasn't really in prayer while I was driving. This also reflects on other areas of my life, as I would do a job, but didn't really stay in prayer as I worked. So in my driving I did pray, but I wasn't always in prayer.
One of the reasons why I wasn't depending so much on the Lord in my driving is because I was quite proud of my own driving abilities and skills. I had gotten my license in Japan (which is quite difficult to do) and had gotten it quickly by Japanese standards. I was able to pass all the tests and get the license really easily. I know that it was the Lord that helped me to do all that, but I still had the temptation to think that I must have some good driving skills because I passed so quickly. This hindered me because I was feeling confident in my own driving. I never really thought that anything like that could have happened to me and I never considered the possibilities of having an accident and all it would entail. This has definitely placed the fear of the Lord in me and also the healthy fear of driving. It's not that I'm afraid to drive now, but I'm very respectful of it and I don't take it lightly as I did before.
One of the main things which I would like to share with others is that it is not something to take lightly and something just to be "enjoyed." Every time I get into the car now I consider the possibilities of having an accident and I keep praying all the time to be able to prevent that from happening, which has really been a big blessing to my driving.
Another thing is that I realized that I had started becoming critical of others' driving because I was quite proud of my own driving capabilities. I know it sounds funny, and I feel like a total idiot having thought that way, as I was just a "freshman" and had only recently gotten my license. But still, I started comparing myself with other drivers, especially the YA drivers who had gone to get their licenses in the States*. I felt like they were like "second-class drivers" because they went the easy route. So I know that the Lord was displeased with that, and that is probably why the Lord allowed this accident to happen to me, so that I would be humbled through it and so I could see that it's not so much a matter of driving skill, but the main thing is prayerfulness and an attitude of soberness in driving and constantly asking the Lord for protection. I was being too cocky and wasn't listening to the checks of the Lord! (*Editor's note: Driver training school is a requirement for a new driver to obtain a license in Japan. It is cheaper in some cases for a new driver to travel to the U.S. and obtain a license there--which can qualify you to receive a Japanese license--than it is to pay for a Japanese driving school course.)
All throughout the day before the accident happened I can think of many different choices and decisions which I made. If I had made the right decision, any one of those would have prevented that accident from happening. I know that the Lord allowed it to teach me those lessons. I would say that it's a really big lesson to learn, and has been difficult and hard to learn, because the month after the accident happened was probably the worst in my life as I felt so discouraged and down, and just the thought that I had actually crashed into someone and took all the extra time and expense from the Home, personnel, money, paperwork, dealing with the police, etc., has been difficult for me. So it's really not worth being self-confident, cocky and unprayerful!
Also, there were a few lessons in my personal life which the Lord wanted to teach me. After the accident I felt very down and discouraged and wanted to crawl into a hole and never wanted to come out. But God bless my shepherds, who were very sweet and understanding! One of them shared a personal testimony about an accident he had at one time which was worse than mine. He asked me to read the MOP quotes on comfort. It was real encouraging to know that He could trust me with a battle like this, and that if He put me through it He must know that there was something good that would come out of it! Praise the Lord!
The actual practical lesson I learned is that the reason why I rammed into the rear-end of that car is because I was driving too close to him, which is one of the things that they warned us about in the rule book. We are supposed to drive sufficient distance behind the other car so that if they suddenly stop, we would have the time and space to stop or turn out of the way. My attitude was, "Now that I have my license, I don't need to obey any of the little Japanese rules." This attitude wasn't right, because once I started throwing out the little rules I would start to excuse myself with the other rules, and soon I wouldn't be driving according to the Family standard. So that was a good lesson for me, that I couldn't just throw out the rules because I got my license. If I would have stayed far enough away from the other car, I would have had time to stop. If I would have obeyed, the accident wouldn't have happened.
Another point along the practical line is that you shouldn't take anything for granted in driving. For example, if there is a person walking on the road or sidewalk, you shouldn't think, "He isn't going to walk onto the road," or, "He isn't going to open the car door." Just don't take anything for granted. This point was really stressed in the safety instruction course (which is required after having an accident) that I went to.
I pray that these lessons are a blessing to you. I am thankful for the Lord's mercy and that He allowed me to go through these lessons, and I pray that it will be a help to others! GBY! ILY!
* * *
Answers to the Family Drivers Test:
1. c
2. b
3. a
4. c
5. a
6. c
7. b
8. False
9. a
10. c
11. True
12. b
13. b
14. d
15. c
16. b
17. True
18. False
19. True
20. a
* * *
GENERAL VEHICLE MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
VEHICLE DETAILS
Model: _____________ Year: ______ Engine size: ___________ Registration no.: _____________ Insurance no.: _____________ Expiry date: _____________ Owner: __________________________
DATE: ___________________ Mileage: ____________________________
FLUID LEVELS:
Gasoline
Oil
Water
Transmission (if automatic)
Coolant/antifreeze
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Windshield washer liquid
Battery (clean terminals whenever needed)
OTHER:
Lights and signals
Tire pressure and visual check
Hoses and drivebelts
LUBE JOB (every 5,000 km or 3,000 miles):
Engine oil
Oil filter
Air filter (every 10,000 km or 6,000 miles)
Fuel filter (every 10,000 km or 6,000 miles)
Transmission fluid
Differential level
Test condition of coolant/antifreeze
Chassis lubrication
BRAKES:
Brake pads and disks
Emergency brake
Brake hoses
OTHER:
Steering (check all front end linkages)
Wheel alignment and balancing
Tire wear
Exhaust system
Engine tune-up
Radiator service (every two years)
COMMENTS / PROBLEMS:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
DAILY CHECKS:
Gasoline | Oil | Water | Tires: Visual check | Adjust mirrors | Lights
* * *
Fuel Consumption Chart
DATE:
LITERS (GALLONS):
KILOMETERS (MILES):
* * *
The Co-Pilot's Checklist
Pray! Be a faithful prayer warrior.
Fasten seat belts.
Know where you're going, and read the map.
Noise monitor. Let's keep the volume down! No sudden noises unless emergency!
Eyes on the road. Indicate whether there is traffic when turning ("Clear right, clear left.").
Backing up: Get out of the car and check if necessary.
Remind the driver of upcoming traffic signs and road conditions if you think he has not seen them.
Stay loving, calm and sweet!
Now Go with Us, Precious Savior
Now go with us, precious Savior
As we journey on our way.
Keep our tires and bless the engine,
Be Thou with us all the way.
Precious Guide, Blessed Guide,
Without Thee we dare not ride.
Precious Guide, Blessed Guide,
We are safe when by Thy side.
Now go with us, precious Savior
As we roll, Thy praise we'll sing,
Hide our car and all the Family
'Neath the shelter of Thy wing.
Precious Guide, Blessed Guide,
Without Thee we dare not ride.
Precious guide, Blessed guide
We are safe when by Thy side.
Now go with us, precious Savior
As we journey through this day,
Keep us--spirit, soul and body,
In sweet victory all the way.
Precious Friend, Blessed Friend,
May Thy Spirit's power attend,
Precious Friend, Blessed Friend,
Help us Trust Thee to the End.
Precious Guide, Blessed Guide,
Without Thee we dare not ride.
Precious Guide, Blessed Guide,
We are safe when by Thy side.
"A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast" (Pro.12:10).
Copyright 1996 The Family