Dear Jason, Why do people speed through my neighborhood like it’s the Daytona 500?

Dear Reader,
I laughed out loud at your comparison—but only because I know exactly what you mean. You step outside for a peaceful walk or try to back out of your driveway, and here comes someone treating the cul-de-sac like it’s a qualifying lap. It’s frustrating. It’s dangerous. And it’s part of a bigger problem.

We live in a culture infected with what some have called hurry sickness. John Mark Comer describes it as “a behavior pattern characterized by continual rushing and anxiousness; an overwhelming and continual sense of urgency.” The irony is, we’re speeding toward nowhere. Dallas Willard once said, “Hurry is the great enemy of spiritual life in our day. You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life.” That’s strong language from a man known for calm wisdom. But he was right.

People aren’t just driving fast—they’re living fast. Late for work, rushing to practices, juggling too much. And when you’re in a rush, other people—like pedestrians, children, or neighbors—can become obstacles instead of human beings. That’s the root problem: distraction and detachment.

Speaking of distraction, cell phones are only making things worse. Drivers checking notifications or responding to texts are no longer fully present behind the wheel. And at 35–45 mph, it doesn’t take long for a tragedy to happen. Studies show that texting while driving is as dangerous as drunk driving. It’s not just a bad habit—it’s a public safety threat.

Now, let’s talk about what not to do. As tempting as it is to yell, throw something, or gesture wildly to “teach them a lesson”—don’t. It rarely works and usually backfires. Escalating the situation only fuels more aggression or defensiveness. You’re trying to fix the problem, not make enemies.

Instead, channel your frustration into productive action. Consider organizing with neighbors to petition your HOA or local government for traffic-calming solutions. Digital speed signs, speed bumps, or increased police presence can all serve as visual and practical deterrents. These measures work best when they’re part of a coordinated effort, not a one-person crusade. Contact your town’s public works or traffic division and explore the options. You might be surprised at what’s available once someone raises the concern respectfully.

You can also become an example of slowness in your own driving. People notice that one person who’s actually doing the speed limit—especially if that person waves kindly instead of glaring. It’s a small protest, but a powerful one.

The deeper fix, though, won’t come from concrete or law enforcement. It will come when more of us wake up to how frantic we’ve become. Living in a constant rush is not a badge of honor.

It’s a symptom of something broken. Let’s not just slow down our cars—let’s slow down our lives.

From your slow moving, smiling, relaxed, peace-filled pit-crew, Jason

Jason Smith: Lowcountry native, husband, and dad to two teenage daughters. Jason Smith is Pastor of NewSpring Church’s Bluffton campus, passionate about faith, family, and connection. jason.smith@newspring.cc