An excerpt from Florida Parks: A Guide to Camping and Nature, by Gerald Grow.

©1997

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Talking to Southerners Much of Florida is inhabited by a cosmopolitan population that moved from many states and countries. It is a popular joke that Miami is the southernmost borough of New York City and Sarasota a suburb of Cleveland. In rural areas, though, you will encounter outposts of the deep South. Many of these places are unused to large numbers of visitors and continue to have a freshness and charm about them. When you stop in such a place, slow yourself down and enjoy it. These are proud people; most of them are friendly and hospitable, but many resist being ordered around. You will get a lot further by asking than by demanding. For example, instead of a brusk, "Fill 'er up, buddy!" Southerners say something like, "Excuse me, when you have a moment, would you mind giving me some gas?" The hardest thing for city folks to understand is the depth of dignity felt by country people. They have never been an invisible part of a crowd. Each one has spent a lifetime being known as a unique individual, a valued member of a small community. They expect to be acknowledged-so say hello when you meet them. Above all, don't act superior. They know you're not!

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