One of the local merchants in our town had his store’s annual fire inspection this week. Everything was found to be in order–except, said the inspector, “you haven’t yet paid the annual $50 fee.”
“I haven’t paid it yet because it’s not due until June 1,” said the merchant.
“All right, then–for the time being, I’ll write you up as being in violation for not paying the fee, and then when you come in and pay it, we’ll rescind the violation.”
“But the fee’s not due until June 1. That’s next week! How can I be in violation for not paying it, when it’s not due?”
And at this point the inspector cut off all discussion with the magic words, “Well, that’s just the way we do it, and that’s what they tell me to do. It’s policy.”
Do you ever get the impression that these people who tell us what to do, from the White House on down to your own town hall, aren’t quite all there?
Wow. I think that deserves a Greegie right there. Maybe the Greegie of the Month.
I wonder if they can write up another violation on, say, June 2, because he hasn’t yet paid the fee due June 1, 2014.
I am giving serious consideration to your Greegie nomination.
This sort of madness happens every day, in every way, in everything. I tune out as much as I can. Depending on the seriousness of the matter at hand, it is not always possible, but I try.
Common sense should be on the Endangered Species list.
Hey, $50,00 here, $50.00 there, pretty soon we are talking about real money.
Even more reason for psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists – there will be no shortage of patients!
I pray your dental visit goes well, Lee.
I’m back, and grateful that they were able to glue the crown back on. But of course they found all kinds of other things they say must be worked on soon–but not until after I’m done writing my book!
Thank you for your prayers, Linda. I hope you’re feeling better today.