Are Northerners Rude Or Did Everyone Quit Pulling Over For Funeral Processions?

That’s how I wanted this blog to go until I realized I was having a “difference in culture” moment. It's not culture shock I don't think, but maybe so, here's what happened.

I was born and raised in the south, well, not deep south, but northwest Arkansas.  So in southern states, when a funeral procession drives by, you pull to the side of the road and let them pass.

Why?  A final show of respect to the deceased and their family; or that’s what I was told growing up.

I remember once as a kid asking, “but what if they weren’t a respectable person?”  My mom replied, something sweet like, "because their family still deserves respect at this time..” She was positive that way.

So I was shocked Friday on my way to work when a funeral procession passed me on Leonard St NW (an easy city street to pull to the side on.. sorta) and NO ONE but me pulled to the side.

In fact, Jimmy, in his Chevy pickup, (that’s what I named him) actually cut through the procession because he HAD to turn left... DURING THE PROCESSION!

I was kind of appalled, as I sat along the side of the street, where people were passing me while I waited for the funeral procession to pass.

So I get to work and start talking about “how disappointed I am.” and “when did this law go away?”

Come to find out, it’s not a law.  It never has been. Not even in southern states. It was just something we did as southerners. Respectful, or weird? I don't know. All I do know is...

Mind-blown.

I really did think it was an everywhere thing!  Seriously, why isn't it?

I mean, I guess in the winter it might get sticky with snow on the side of the road, so that may have something to do with it, but it just seems weird not seeing people pull to the side.

I kinda wish it was a thing everywhere. It's a cool "last sign of respect" to show someone and their family. It's also a good moment to remember that one day that will be you, so live your best life.  I don't know, maybe that's just me.  Anyway, don't honk if you see me pull off to the side.

 

 

Here’s the video that shows what I grew up doing when a funeral procession passed.

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