Tuesday, August 23, 2016

Pinpoint Guidance

Dex prided himself on being able to guide vehicles into spaces and around tight quarters without mishap. He had been a certified Guider for over a decade without a single issue of one vehicle touching another. Sometimes in heavy traffic areas, he was called out of bed by police to help direct traffic.
He would be walking along and spot a new or nervous driver trying to fit into a tight space. Without hesitation, Dex took control, using deft hand and arm gestures and calling out instructions in a firm, but calm voice. He always made certain to compliment the driver afterwards, building their confidence.
Dex had a purpose when he awoke every day.
But then came that horrible week in which it seemed he'd lost his touch. Three slight fender touches on backing into a spot, all on his watch. Cameras caught it all and now he was being called before the Council of Pinpoint Guidance to discuss his actions. There was a chance he would lose certification and be banned from guiding vehicles, essentially demoted to helping kids adjust their hand brakes.
Maybe he should have his eyes checked. Guider's were allowed glasses. Or, horrors, maybe he was succumbing to pressure. He couldn't bluff them--it was all on camera.
The hardest truth was there were only seconds to decide whether a driver could continue backing and cutting the wheel, or pulling up and angling it again. The young kids just certified didn't hesitate. That was Dex a decade ago. Now he was the nervous one.

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