Caught Red-Handed: The WhatsApp Wake-up Call While Driving

Another routine morning, sipping coffee in traffic on Ayalon towards Tel Aviv. A perfect time to catch up on last night's WhatsApp messages, as there's no better opportunity.

With my usual luck, only mine, a police officer on a motorcycle signals me to pull over. How do I get out of this, I wonder..

I pull over to the side, and he approaches immediately. "Texting while driving," he says sarcastically, fully confident in his observation.

"Officer, you're right, but I'm a student," I reply..

"Students don't drive new Hondas," he retorts.

I immediately search for my student card and remember.. "Officer, to get a student card, you need to join the student union. It costs 15 shekels a month, the same 15 shekels I tried so hard to save.."

It turns out that attempt failed, and I'm dealing with a highly motivated officer.

I quickly move to Plan B, "Officer, my mom is very ill (sorry, Mom) and I rely on food packages from charities.."

The officer looks at me with pitiful eyes. It's working, I tell myself..

I stare right into his eyes, sensing I've touched his heart. I think he's about to let it go, maybe because I struck a chord. But honestly, who really cares..

Just before it happens, of course, I try to lighten the mood with a little joke

"Officer, can these tickets be paid in installments?!"

He gives me a threatening look.. Apparently, he didn't find it amusing.

The officer places his hand on my car window, and my heart races…..

"Hand over your documents," he demands in a loud voice.

I hand him all the paperwork, and he returns to his motorcycle. I wait long minutes. Long minutes where I have no nails left to bite.

After those long minutes, he returns, waving with his left hand.. "Here you go, young man," he says.. and adds, "Have a good day".

I take the ticket in deep frustration.

A ticket, wait.. A note?! Could it be that I got a note from the officer?! I stare in shock.. Yes, it's a note!

I smile to myself and open it……

"Last time, idiot!!!" it reads.

Officer, you definitely made my day, and there's no doubt this will indeed be the last time!!!!!

Have a good day, everyone!

Thank you, kind-hearted officer