​​​​​​Because humor is funnier when you know it's true.

Texas speeding

Early in the new millennium, I was in the process of relocating from Ohio to Texas.  On one of my transition trips, I was cruising down a Texas highway when suddenly there were flashing lights in my rearview.  I glanced at my speedometer and noticed that my speed had somehow drifted up to about 90 mph!  Unfortunately, this was in excess of even Texas’ most generous speed limits.  I was caught red-handed, or is it lead-footed?

Anyway, after we pulled over, the officer walked up to my window and asked for my license and registration.  After looking over my documents, and seeing that I was from Ohio, he asked what brought me to Texas.  I told him I was in the process of relocating to a new career in Texas. 

Out of the blue, he asked me, “When did Texas achieve its independence from Mexico?”

I quickly answered, “1836, sir.”

He was pleased with my correct answer and said, “Okay, you can go.  Just be careful out there."

And that was it!  I got away with just a warning!  But it taught me a valuable lesson.  No, not the one about obeying speed limits.  I continued to violate those.  No, the lesson was, “Know your local history.” 

- John L.