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First person Quote by Aimee Bender

“The people were all busy in their cars, listening to the radio, so there was no one to smile at, so I just sent my love to the traffic lights. No one ever appreciates them, all day long, working so hard to turn red and yellow and green, right in time with us to make sure we don't crash into each…” quote by Aimee Bender
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““The people were all busy in their cars, listening to the radio, so there was no one to smile at, so I just sent my love to the traffic lights. No one ever appreciates them, all day long, working so hard to turn red and yellow and green, right in time with us to make sure we don't crash into each other. If there was any tiny chance, even the tiniest chance, that they happened to be alive, I bet I was the first person ever to tell them they were special. You are special, I said out loud in my car, but in case they couldn't hear, I cracked my window open. "You are special," I said, to the night air. And just like that, a green light.””

Aimee Bender

About This Quote

Source Short story: “Traffic Light” by Aimee Bender, 2015

He personifies traffic lights, expressing gratitude for their unnoticed service and reminding us to acknowledge everyday objects.

In simple terms: He told traffic lights they are special.

Key Takeaway

Notice and appreciate the small things that help us daily.

Themes

gratitude mindfulness empathy

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • driving
  • commuting
  • city walks
  • night drives
  • public spaces

Key Concepts

personification urban life appreciation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mundane things could you thank today?
  • How does gratitude change perception of routine?
A Different Perspective

May anthropomorphize inanimate objects, risking distraction.

3.5 out of 5 (5 ratings)

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