TheBanyanTree: Segregation of sorts

[Glo~ee]

We live in a resort area in northern Michigan, which should not be
confused with the Upper Peninsula (UP) of Michigan.  Though you won't
see it on an official map, Michigan is a state divided times three.

The UP has a great desire to become a sovereign state.  A state
comprised of its people, fondly called the Yoopers.  They are a
fun-loving, rugged, hard-working population whose duty it is to
protect the right of all to enjoy nature and other humans to the
greatest extent possible.

The northern half of the lower peninsula (the mitten shaped land) is
comprised of people much like the Yoopers, with the exception of a
segment that loves money.  Our pace is slow, towns are small and the
people are friendly.   We are frequently invaded by those that live in
the southern half of the lower peninsula.  Hence, the need to build
resorts complete with the modern conveniences that the urbanites are
accustomed to and at the same time maintain our natural resources for
all to enjoy.  Urban sprawl isn't welcomed here by the most of the
natives, but it's happening anyway.

The southern half of the lower peninsula is comprised mainly of those
interested in living in big cities, and the making and spending of
money.  It's also where the bulk of our legislators reside.  They are
the jet-setters.   They are the people that tend to demand, rather
than ask for whatever it is that they want.

When I attend state-wide conferences, it's readily apparent to me
where the others reside.  We have the three piece suits, casual dress,
and the flannel shirt segments.  It carries down into the shoes.  I
find that interesting.  If everyone were naked, it would still be
possible to discern where people reside.  The stiff, solemn group from
the south; the friendly but somewhat reserved group is from the north,
and those that are having one helluva good time are the Yoopers.

I think about these things sometimes.  Just like our nation has
labeled the westerners as free-spirts, and the southerners full of
hospitality, the midwest is where you'll find kind, hard-working
people.  The northerners I reckon are labeled hardy, since we endure
frigid weather in the winter.  Are we known for anything else?  Shoot,
with three categories in one state, how would it be possible?  Labels.
 'Tis a shame, isn't it?

I have no idea how I got to thinking about this on a quiet Sunday
morning!  So tell me, what does the word Michigan signify to you?

Gloria