I teach driver education around Lewiston-Auburn. I teach your sons and daughters, sisters and brothers and grandchildren. I teach the kids in your high schools.

And you want to know something? They are amazing young people.

When I tell people about my career, most are incredulous. “Are you crazy?” or “You have a death wish?” are two common responses. I smile and explain.

My kids (over 40 hours together, they become my kids) are excellent drivers.

Inexperienced? Yes. I tell them it is indecision that will get them in trouble.

Do you know what causes indecision for them?

We do – we “experienced” drivers. We who pass on solid lines, who pass on the right when there is no right lane. We who run yellow lights, red lights and stop signs. We who do not signal to make a turn. We who talk on the cell phone, read the paper or put on make-up while we drive. We who have been driving for 30 years or so and have developed some pretty bad habits over time.

If you make sure that when you drive, you are safe, polite, and legal, then your behavior would be predictable. Being predictable helps my kids be predictable, and safe. Tailgating? Cutting in front of us because you don’t want to be behind a driver’s ed car?

Did you ever have to learn to drive?

Remember that the next time you see us on the road.

Denise Dyer, Standish