On the I-75 near the state lines rests a billboard reading sternly ” Visitor Warning . Florida Residents can use deadly force. Please be careful. ” (Meant as a sincere warning about Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” Law) I remember laughing as I first drove by.  It seemed satirical.  A casual nod that when given the option to use violence, Floridians would embrace it wholeheartedly. That this act was so common place, it was necessary knowledge for outsiders, such as “don’t drink the water” or “watch out for pickpockets”.  This was just part of our culture in the sunshine state.

It’s been years now since I’ve lived in Florida.  The sign is long gone, but the law lives on.  I can’t help but wonder the continuing cultural impact on an already wild eyed state and it’s future generations who see this mentality as nothing more than a acceptable way of life. 

-Kyle