Signs of The South

May I be on record saying, "I Love The South." I've been to the four corners of these United States and acknowledging specific and special beauty found in each, I would still chose The South if relocating. Okay, you readers may now stand at ease on the following comments.

This Illinois native traveling South recently could not help but notice geographical changes but also sociological changes when entering Dixie. There are obvious man made geographical difference between Illinois and Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Florida , which are noticed on interstate roadways. Southern States roadway-pavements are in excellent condition and shoulder areas are maintained at the A+ level. Meanwhile, back in Illini country, we posts a flaming red 'F' grade. This leads to speculation regarding political integrity, eh?

Southern States' landscape become a stark contrast to the Central States rolling plains as the tall pines rise high above reddish clay, which is accentuated with periodic hill side glistening-rock formed ledges. The winding roadways seemed plotted to find the least resistance to the challenging rolling hills. Indeed The South is blessed with a unique beauty supported by the warmer year around climate.

The earthly characteristics are not the only 'signs' of The South; in fact, there are those actual 'Signs' IN The South that seem unparalleled. Those Southern roadway billboards become a most enjoyable  and entertaining read. Just a few examples: Two billboards located side-by-side, one reads "Jesus Saves" & the second reads "Rattlesnake Rodeo-March 17." A few more miles and two more signs of The South catch your eyes: "Best Adult Book Store in The South" & "Where do YOU plan to spend Eternity> Heaven or Hell." (That kinda compromises the X-Rated Video Shop).

Periodically, I noticed the Confederate Flag along the Southern highways. I began to daydream a little about that Flag and how it's been abused by none other than Southerners. That's absolutely right! Occasionally, on television, I see the Confederate Flag with KKK marchers and White Nationalists marchers. I cannot not help but wonder if America's military intelligence can hunt down the likes of bin Laden, al Baghdadi and Soleimani, why in God's name can't we hunt down our own homegrown terrorists? (Perhaps our leaders lack the WILL?)

My day dreaming was abruptly stopped as I suddenly came upon the auto in front of me and noticed a bumper sticker, which read: "If you don't understand our billboards you ain't from these parts."

I do declare, I Love The South.