Monday, March 9, 2009

Peer Pressure

"Peer pressure has many redeeming qualities. It is the pressure of our peers, after all, that gives us the support to try things we otherwise wouldn't have." - Bill Treasurer, Right Risk

Often peer pressure is considered a negative influence in people's lives, but I believe peer pressure can be a positive thing if your peers are pressuring you to better your life. Last weekend, I had a little run in with some peer pressure. I will let you be the judge as to whether or not it was positive.

With a low key night of wine and board games in mind, two friends and I ventured to the local LCBO to pick up our wine. As we came out of the liquor store, wine in hand, I noticed a guy going into the store had left his old pickup truck running. I commented about how much this annoys me and how I have always wanted to be brave enough to just open the door of running vehicles and turn off the ignition. We got into my friend's car and they did their best to convince me that this was a good idea. I kept saying no, but then my friend pulled out of her space and parked in the middle of the road beside the truck and said I just had to do it (the other friend would be on the look out). My stomach flip-flopped, but the peer pressure got to me and I hopped out of the car, left the door open, and bravely opened the truck door. With my hand on the ignition, I realized in horror that there is a girl in the passenger seat! She looked as shocked as I was! Instead of thinking of something clever to say to explain the crazy behaviour, I let out a little scream, slammed the door, jumped back in my friends car and thankfully she sped away.

Ah, the adrenaline rush...I can see how people get addicted to that feeling. It's been a week and I haven't repeated the experience, but I have to admit that I plan to! Thanks ladies!

1 comment: