Before stepping up on the soapbox, it is time to confess: I am guilty. I have talked on the phone and read e-mails while driving — or at least when stopped at a light at an intersection.

A reader called in to express his frustration with the number of motorists he has seen engaged in conversation on their phone while behind the wheel. Since his call, I’ve tried to be more diligent and do what drivers are supposed to do: focus on driving.

Let’s all take heed of this concerned caller’s comments — and let me add he was very vocal in expressing his anger at seeing a cell phone perched on a shoulder or being held in the hand.

His call also triggered a conscious effort to be more aware of other drivers — and whether their attention was directed toward the highway. In the past week, motorists have zipped through intersections as lights turned red and darted onto the road, with cell phone firmly up against their cheek.

The caller did not identify himself and he was encouraged to express his opinion in the form of a letter to the editor. Whatever he chooses to do, his call did inspire at least one driver, as in this writer, to put down the phone and drive. It’s a lesson we can all live with.

Etc.

+ No doubt you have a noticed a periodic theme here dealing with Facebook. Your involvement in our page has been overwhelming — and we so appreciate your comments and participation. As an “old school” journalist, the idea of social media seemed foreign, with the first venture into Twitter. Now, the interaction with you, our readers, has become a welcome routine. We are sharing opinions, ideas and thoughts. So, as we near the 3,400 mark of followers, thank you. And, please, continue to use our Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/mechlocal, as a tool for your role in our community.