The Keswick launch..

Many of the roads in the Lake District are extremely narrow and you frequently have to reverse into "passing places" to enable other vehicles to pass you - or vice versa. I was struck this week by the different way people behave at these times. Some pass by stony faced, eyes straight ahead, not acknowledging your existance. Others look stern but raise a courteous hand. Some look positively annoyed and angry as they squeeze past, glaring or frowning. And some people give you a smile, a wave, a mouthed "thank you!"

One car had to reverse quite some distance down a narrow twisty lane in order for us to pass; we felt really sorry for him. As we drew level we looked towards him to be met with big beaming smiles and friendly waves from both him and his lady companion. We all smiled and waved back and drove on, feeling cheered by the exchange.

These passing places are like life; some of the folk you meet in a tight spot leave you feeling upset, somehow guilty, awkward and uncomfortable. Some evoke a flare of anger in response to their aggresive and unhelpful attitude. And some, like that last driver, brighten your day and make you feel warmth and affection for your fellow man. How sweet it is to exchange smiles and waves with a total stranger!