This morning, I went to the coffee shop with my girlfriend for a cup of tea. As we turned into the parking lot, an older man in a Tesla blocked the right lane, waiting for a large SUV to leave a space. First, the Tesla created a hazard by blocking the entrance. Second, there were plenty of other spaces for the Tesla to park. He simply needed that spot close to the coffee shop entrance.

The SUV driver had trouble backing out. My girlfriend and I parked and walked to the shop. The SUV driver was still having trouble. But, as we got closer, he was able to make the turn with enough clearance. He kept backing up, closer to the Tesla.

The SUV driver opened his door and said, “Could you move back?”

The Tesla driver said, “No.”

“Not even an inch?” said the SUV driver.

“No,” said the arrogant older man.

As we entered the coffee shop, the two drivers got into a verbal argument. F-word carpet bombing ensued. Both of them had the gall to say, “Do you know who I am?” “Do you know who I am?”

The parking lot security guard had to intervene. Screaming continued, and the two eventually parted ways and left.

I’m not sure where you live in the country, but I’ve noticed a rise in people losing their temper immediately in the public space. More honked horns, more middle fingers; less neighborly compassion.

Both men overlooked their place in the public space; their selfishness overriding reason. Both acted as if the world owed them. They lashed out when the world didn’t deliver. They failed to step back and look at the bigger picture.

What an interesting way to start a Thursday. Either way, that Tesla Model S looked sweet.