My mind had started to wander. To be more precise, it had been racing, all over the place. My thoughts were occupied with all the things that needed to get done. When I saw the speed limit sign, I took my foot of the gas and with it my mind off the distractions running through my head. I slowed down to the suggested 45 mph. That’s when I noticed him in my review mirror. I had to take a double look, but the bar across the front of the car, now following me closely, was unmistakeably that of a police car. Only a couple of seconds later, I was sure. When his lights came on, my stomach sank.
I don’t know what you do, but in moments like these I pray. “Lord, I am so sorry! PLEASE, can you convince him to give me a warning?” I pulled over, digging for my license, registration, and proof of insurance, all along praying that if I received another ticket, God would be with my husband. I could not believe I was here again, pulled over, on the side of the road, with feelings of regret and wishing I had obeyed the rules. (You can read about what happened only about six months ago here.)
Regret has not only haunted me on the side of the road, but also when I have thoughtlessly sped with the words of my mouth. I can be slow to listen and quick to speak. In conversations I can have the tendency to think of the very next thing to say, rather than pay attention to what someone is trying to communicate. Speeding can’t be reversed. I can’t go back, slow down, and make restitution for my speeding. Speaking ill can’t be reversed either. What has come out of my mouth is now out, free for the enemy to use.
This incident has reminded me to slow down, to pay attention to the instructions set out for my protection and the welfare of those around me. It has made me keenly and fearfully aware of the consequences of my racing through life, without paying attention to the mandates.
“Mrs. Viars, I will give you a warning today. But please slow down!”
“Yes, Sir!”
Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;
James 1:19
“Father, please forgive me for selfishly speeding with my words.
Set a gate over the door of my mouth and help me to slow down.
Thank you for your gentle (and not so gentle) reminders
to pay attention to the rules you have set out for me.
Thank You for the warnings.”
Heidi Viars 
Let me know what you think