No one understands you? Try this...

I made a Serious Offense 2 days ago...

I unknowingly mindlessly crossed yellow lights.

Guess what! Traffic Police was standing right there. They stopped my Car and in an extreme rude manner asked to show him the papers of car.. I was shocked, was unaware of what actually has happened, asked them what happened? Again a rude remark came - "Madam, you have crossed yellow lights." I replied in a shock - "No, I didn't." To which they replied - " So what do you mean, we are blind?" I replied - "No, I didn't mean this..." Interrupting me in between they said "This is what you are trying to say madam." I kept quiet and started looking for my car papers. While handing over the papers I requested to reconsider their decision but they kept on saying "Give us the papers, bring your driving license also." While I was turning towards the car, I turned towards them and patiently said "I understand your anger towards me." Guess what - He Smiled and in a little melt down tone he said "Why will I be angry with you?" I replied "I mean I understand that you have to be harsh on people like us who break rules, and I also understand that this is your duty and you are fulfilling it correctly. All I want to tell you is that I did not deliberately cross the Yellow lights, I was not even aware of it, but yes allow me few minutes I will bring my driving license."

His Body language changed in this much time. He said in a polite tone this time "Madam, we don't have any personal grudges with anyone." I replied "I understand, and you are doing it right, all I request you is to please consider my case." and I started looking for my Driving License. 

He came to me and in an extremely compassionate tone "Take this RC, and make sure you do not do it again." I was surprised, looked at him and with a smile Thanked him. 

And I can say that he was feeling good because he was smiling back and somewhere I got this feeling that he liked the fact that someone was able to understand their hardships while on duty in this fast racing city. 

How strange is the fact that when I tried to understand his situation and hardships He on his own understood my concern.

This reminded me of the book 7 habits of highly effective people's Habit No. 5: SEEK FIRST TO UNDERSTAND, THEN TO BE UNDERSTOOD

It works Magic...All we have to do is shift the focus from our need to the other person's need and we will get what we want without compromises.

P.S. From that day onwards, I am absolutely mindful of all the Traffic Lights.