Wise old snowman

Around this time of year, many people speak of the three wise men that visited Joseph and Mary in a stable oh so many years ago. However, there was a wise man much closer to home that many should also remember.

Maybe, some will not agree that he was all that wise, but no matter from which side of the fence you're looking over, it's hard to argue he passed along, in three words, a gift more valuable than gold, incense and myrrh.

This wise revelation also happened a few years ago, but it too has lasted the test of time, and should be around for many more to come. Its value will not diminish in time, as it is invaluable.

Still wondering who relayed a message of such value and importance. Well, maybe many can still recall who penned, or at least was given credit for penning, the phrase, "Snow Means Slow."

Yes, the very profound John Efford relayed these words to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians many moons ago when he was minister of transportation. He spoke these three words oh so carefully on television and radio, and smiled with concern in newspaper advertisements.

No government or political jibber-jabber attached here, just a strong valuable message.

The truth is there have never been three words with such a powerful meaning or able to strike fear in men and women alike, and that may even include "I love you."

By saying the former, you actually insinuate the latter, and it's now the time of year to be thinking along Mr. Efford's lines.

There have already been three very significant snowfalls in central Newfoundland this fall, with the most recent this past weekend. And fortunately, no fatal accidents were reported in this region during these snowfalls.

However, this is only the beginning of the snowstorm season, and there will be many more times for Mr. Efford's words to ring loud.

There will be some driving the highways and roads who will be quick to blame government, both provincial and municipal, and their road crews for deplorable snow-clearing efforts resulting in accidents of minor and fatal consquences.

However, in most cases, why not lay blame where blame is due - on the winter drivers themselves?

This doesn't mean government and their workers are exempt from the responsibility they have in providing safe driving conditions, but the decision to head out on the highway is ultimately up to the driver.

Winter driving is about adjustment, whether it is to a departure or arrival schedule, or how one travels the road.

Just because a road sign has a triple-digit number painted on it, it doesn't mean a driver has to travel that speed. It's much more important to drive to the conditions, as the speed limit signs are erected for ideal driving conditions.

Once again, Mr. Efford's message may have been been relayed many years ago, but it is still very relevant - snow does mean slow down.

What a wise old man he was - or at least in this instance. A personal opinion you will have to make, just like how you drive in snow.

Be safe.