STOPPED: And enlightened

I wanted to take a moment to say “Thank You” to the Idaho State Patrol Officer who pulled me over recently. The officer asked me if I knew why I had been pulled over. I did not. He politely informed me that it was against the law to flick cigarette ash out of a window. He said it was a misdemeanor. I replied that I did not know. He stated that most people are not aware that it is.

All I can say is I wouldn’t be writing this letter if common sense was standard issue. I realized that I have been self-centered and negligent. I was not prepared for this stop. Who plans these things? The officer returned to his car to check my information. I reasoned as I waited that I would accept whatever consequence he issued. I didn’t like getting pulled over, but I understood he was simply doing what he is paid to do. This is true even if it didn’t go in my favor.

This officer issued me a warning. It was a break I didn’t deserve! I asked his permission only “after” he made his decision to make a statement. He said that I could. I thanked him for his service. I thanked him for performing his duty with the risk associated with doing his job. I informed him that I have chosen not to be bitter or resentful at law enforcement for mistakes I make.

JASON TOFTE

Post Falls