Yesterday was quite something. I’d like to erase it from my memory. Delete the file forever.
Several years ago, our provincial government instituted a law. If you were born in a certain year or later, you have to retake a (slightly modified) driver’s test two years after receiving your permit. Well, it’s supposed to be two years. Many people leave it much longer than that, mainly because of the cost. It’s $100, not the kind of money I have readily available. Hello, student loan that will taunt me for years to come.
I don’t know a lot of people my age and younger who have taken the test. The rule isn’t enforced very well … there isn’t much of a penalty for not taking the test. You just never have that on your record. In my opinion, it’s not a huge deal.
I’ve had my license for almost six years. I attemped to take the modified “two years down the road” exam a year ago. I failed. Buh bye, $100. Just like that. Gone. And I’m a good driver! It’s a total cash grab for the government. And I’m not just saying that because I’m a Bitter Betsy.
I swore I WOULD NEVER TAKE THE TEST AGAIN. I refused to give up the money for something that wasn’t (and isn’t) enforced very well.
That was until a few months ago. My current employer informed me that I needed to have this test on my record. I didn’t know that when I accepted the job almost a year ago … or I would have mentally prepared myself for the news. I kept telling my boss “I don’t have the extra $100 for this @#$% test, I’m sorry”. Finally this week I was told if I didn’t pass it by June 1st, I wouldn’t be allowed to drive a company car. Kind of a big deal. I need a company vehicle to do my job. I could use my own … but, that sucks.
So, I went to take the test yesterday. I was so nervous.
On the way there, my car stalled in the middle of the road. Great omen, right? I haven’t been having car problems. It just … died. That was awesome. I got it restarted and got to the testing facility. Whew.
Once inside, I handed them my registration and insurance. I was informed my insurance slip was outdated. Now, I’m an incredibly organized (and law abiding!) person. I’m so anal about having the proper pink slips in my car. I don’t know how that happened. So I had to get on the phone with my insurance company and get them to confirm that my car was insured. Whew. Problem fixed.
Finally, we started the test. I felt good. He complimented me on my merging (thanks, sir!). He seemed relaxed. I relaxed. I felt good.
The test finished. I parked the car, switched off the ignition. He turned to me, and proceeded to tell me I FAILED. I know I’m a good driver. But apparently I have developed enough habits over the course of the last six years. The little things added up. I failed.
He left the car. I cried. I called my dad and bawled. I was so embarrassed. Who fails a driver’s test at 21?!
I needed to get back to work (the LAST thing I wanted to do). But I needed to cool down and go to Starbucks first. I had cried all my makeup off, the least I could do was buy myself an iced green tea to try and calm down my splotchy skin/racing heart/pounding, tear-induced headache.
On the way to Starbucks, my car started making a clicking sound and the engine light came on. I yelled, “I LOVE THIS CAR AND YOU NEVER HAVE PROBLEMS, WHY ARE YOU CHOOSING TODAY?!”. But I managed to grab my tea and make it back to work alive. I don’t know about the car yet. I may need to book it a doctor’s appointment. I need to see what it does today.
The moral of this incredibly long and pictureless story is that yesterday was not the best day. I left the office angry, frustrated, embarassed, less $100, without any makeup left on my face, and late enough that I was going to miss spin class.
Then I remembered about an event happening in my community last night. A sporting event, paying tribute to two young athletes who were tragically killed last winter. They were my age. They were so young, and had a lot of promise in the sports they both played. They left behind mourning families, grieving friends, and a devastated community.
Who cares if I failed my test? Who cares?
I have my health. I have a loving family. I have wonderful friends. There’s food in my fridge. I really enjoy my life. I’m happy.
So, yes, I’ll have to take the stupid test again. And I guess I’ll try really hard to shoulder check when making right turns in a residential area.
But that’s okay. There are far worse things.
That sounds like QUITE a day. Good for you for being able to put things in perspective though, that’s never easy to do when all you really want to do is feel sorry for yourself. Hope today is better!!!
Sorry to hear about your test. My sister in law just got her license and I was thinking how I would likely fail if I were to take my test again. Like Alyssa said, it’s good that you’re able to put things into perspective! Hope you’re feeling better!
I am so sorry about your bad day! You’re right, sometimes we have to step back and take a look at the bigger picture and realize that our problems aren’t as big as other peoples’ out there. However, it’s still OK to wallow a bit in your own stuff. Try to keep it positive – you are a good driver like you said, and I think this will work out and you’ll pass! – but also don’t beat yourself up for being bummed. It’s OK to be bummed! As long as you don’t stay that way!
Thanks girl! I gave myself some time to wallow and cry and feel sorry for myself, t it felt good once I realized how much worse off I could be. I’m a lucky girl … just with the wrong type of drivers license
enjoy your weekend!
oh student loans, my nemesis. But whoa, that sucks about the drivers test. That is so unfair, I bet I wouldn’t remember any of that either. Hang in there girl!
whoa. whoa. whoa. WHAT THE FUCK?! I can not even hold back the eff bomb. That is legit fucked up. Our government is a joke. I mean that is given. This is a whole new low. I am sorry this happened to you. I would be screwed if I had to take a test again.. I mean, I would and could pass, I am one of the best drivers I know, but I wouldnt pass because of my little habits (like you referred to) that I have developed over the years.
I appreciate the F bomb, girl. It is dumb and infuriating and stupid and I hate it. The habits getcha! Just ridiculous!
Awww, that really sucks. I HATE taking road tests – I get so ridiculously nervous. Don’t feel too bad though… they can fail you for the dumbest reasons, it doesn’t mean you’re a bad driver. I failed my first G1 test, passed my second one and when I went for my G license, I passed but the lady made a point of telling me I “barely” passed and then proceeded to yell at me for everything I did wrong… gotta love those driving test people.
Sounds like quite a lady. There’s no way I could do that for a living … I’d probably be that miserable too!
Ugh, that sounds like quite a day. I think letting yourself take a few moments to be upset, and annoyed and disappointed is a healthy and good thing! But it’s great that after that you could put it in perspective.
I am so glad they don’t do a test like that in the states. As much as I think I’m a great driver I bet I have sooo many bad habits now and I would FAIL.
I hope you have a great weekend!
I’m sorry to hear about your bad day! WAH! i can only imagine having to retake my driving test. i don’t even think i can parallel park anymore so that would probably be a major fail !hope your days get better
and you’re right- you have your health ! good perspective to keep
Aww, hun…those days are awful, but I love your positive take on it! Great perspective!
Oh wow, I hate to think how many bad habits I’ve accumulated over the years…
But, I love the perspective you’ve been able to garner. Maybe I’m feeling tired and emotional today but it’s made me teary. You’re right. The failed test and car-breaking-down-omen will soon just be a funny anecdote for parties. But… you’re still here – happy and healthy.
xxx
You’re so right … the stories I will be able to tell will be hysterical
Enjoy your weekend Deb!
Student loans suck! But, glad you were able to see the positive in the situation. That was very encouraging for my own situation. Sending positive vibes for your next attempt.
Thank you! I really, really appreciate it
Wow, what a miserable day. Sorry for that aggravation, but props for seeing the glass not only has half full, but FULL. Keeping things in perspective, as we all must remind ourselves to do.
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