Relational responsibilities

Something from Joshua Harris' book.

"When you're just getting to know someone, it's essential that you remember what I call your "relational responsibilities"...Imagine you're in a car on a lonely deserted road. No one's in sight, and the smooth pavement stretches out as far as you can see. You know the vehicle can go fast; you just don't know how fast. But you'd like to find out. No one will see you. Why not try it? You throw the car into high gear and roar down the road.

Now imagine you're in the car again, but this time a dear friend sits in the passenger seat. An instead of being on a deserted road, you're in the heart of a busy city, surrounded by other cars and pedestrians. Then out of the corner of your eye, you see a police car. You don't even think of speeding. You drive down the street slowly and carefully.

What's the difference between the 2 scenarios? The difference is that in the first you were an isolated person who only had yourself to worry about. But the 2nd scenario placed you in relationships with others. Instead of being alone, you had responsibilities. If you wrecked the car, you would be responsible for the life of the person strapped in the seat next to you. Your recklessness would also place the lives of the motorists around you in danger. And finally, the policeman's presence reminded you of the traffic laws you should obey. You drove slowly...
If you start out thinking only of yourself...you'll speed...and probably run over people along the way. But if you remember that your actions affect others, you'll find the resolve to proceed cautiously and carefully."