We have a special culture here that I think of as “the Vashon Way.” People look out for each other and are helpful without being asked. One of the first winters after we moved to Vashon 24 years ago, a mid-day storm knocked an alder across our driveway while my husband and I both were at work. By the time we came home, the neighbor across the road had brought his chain saw and cut it up so we could drive up the driveway!

Recently I encountered someone who was not practicing the Vashon Way. He or she, I don’t know which, was in such a hurry early one morning that the driver crossed a double yellow line to pass me on a blind curve. Even worse, we were on a narrow road where there is no shoulder at all. The driver probably thought the maneuver was safe enough, but a person or a dog out for a stroll could easily have paid the ultimate price.

I commute to Seattle every day, so I know the urge to race for the ferry. Let’s all remember that on Vashon we care about our neighbors. There will always be another boat.

— Laura Wishik