Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Jesus Take the Wheel

I listen to country music sometimes, and the large religious content typically makes me turn the station. However, this time, I really began laughing. I understand that this song is figurative for someone's life, but here are some REAL tips for when you hit black ice:

Here are some winter driving safety tips on how to drive on black ice:

1) As soon as your car begins to slide on black ice, take your foot off the gas pedal. In fact, the last thing you want to do is give your car more gas. It is very important to slow down when you are driving on black ice or in any other winter road conditions.

2) Don't slam the brakes. While it may be a natural instinct to slam on your brakes, this will only cause your car to lose control and slide even more. Tap the brake pedal lightly instead of pushing down hard on it.

3) Look for trouble spots ahead. If you have an idea that there may be black ice ahead (if you see cars ahead of you sliding, for example), downshift to a lower gear before you come onto the black ice. The lower gear will force you to drive more slowly and it will give you better control of your car.

4) If your car does begin to skid on the ice, turn the wheel in the direction of the skid. This should help to steer your car back on the right track.

Okay, sounds good. It's good to be prepared in your mind in case this happens so you can help guide your car out of an extremely dangerous situation. Here's what the song says to do:

She had a lot on her mind and she didn't pay attention
She was going way too fast
Before she knew it she was spinning
On a thin black sheet of glass

She saw both their lives flash before her eyes
She didn't even have time to cry
She was soo-o-o-o-o scared
She threw her hands up in the air

Jesus, take the wheel
Take it from my hands
'Cause I can't do this on my own

I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
To save me from this road I'm on
Jesus, take the wheel

Well, irregardless of her idiocy, she survives somehow, and thanks Jesus for taking control of her car and guiding her to a gentle stop by the side of the road, thus saving her and her baby's life.

While doing so, the song completely undermines actual safe driving techniques. Can anyone think of other examples where belief in God/Jesus stops people from thinking critically or preparing properly for situations?