doh... instant karma

Generally speaking, I'm going to try to stay away from anecdotal posts like the ones I've written in the past, in the interest of trying to build a useful academic space on this site. However, this amused me to no end...

I just had lunch with a friend and, as we parted ways outside the restaurant, I stepped into the street without looking to my right. I realized what I was doing halfway across, and turned to see a big delivery truck coming towards me. Rather than stopping and waiting or, better yet, returning to the curb, I chose to run across the street, in front of the truck.

As I continued down the block, the truck pulled up next to me and the passenger started yelling at me. I looked at him and took a few steps towards him to hear what he had to say, because I didn't want to be a jerk and ignore him. After he'd said his piece I said "I know... I wasn't paying attention... I'm sorry." Somewhat unexpectedly, he smiled and said "OK. I accept your apology."

So I was feeling pretty good about myself.

A few blocks later I arrive at an intersection that EVERYBODY jaywalks at, because the light is long, the traffic is completely predictable, and the street is really narrow. (I saw a guy riding a Rascal jaywalking there).

Anyway, I take a step into the street and catch a glimpse of a police car. I hesitate, but walk anyway, and immediately see the officer motioning me over.

$25 ticket. Instant Karma.