The Pop-tart Rule

Many of the things we do in life are guided, if not governed by a set of rules. These rules are sometimes big, "important" things, and sometimes they are merely tricks and reminders that help us better our own lives with suggestions. An example of a larger rule is Gravity. It sits there, pulling you downwards when all ya want to do is jump really, REALLY high. But no, Gravity says you may not, and so we don't. Then, to smaller rules, rules that could be broken, but we choose not to because by following them we have improved the standards by which we live. These rules include academic honesty, "please and thank-you", and all sorts of chivalrous deeds that were done back in the days of knights, damsels, and distressed moments of dragons and tall towers.

Anyway, I am here to share a rule that I have made and has helped guide me in many different circumstances through my life (this far). "One Pop-tart is two Pop-tarts". Now, to those of you who have not heard me say this, I know what you're thinking. You're thinking this comment is stupid, even impossible. Perhaps, I am actually being a hypocrite to myself and developing a saying that is either redundant, contradictory, or altogether false. But, before anyone jumps down my throat I'd like to call everyone's attention to the way in which Pop-tarts are sold. When you buy "one" Pop-tart, what you actually receive is a little crinkly and silver package, in which there are TWO Pop-tarts. Thus, one Pop-tart is actually two Pop-tarts.

So, why is this a rule? Do I just REALLY like to eat Pop-tarts? Actually no. I don't even remember the last time I had a Pop-tart. However, this example and saying provides a model that can be used to describe a multitude of facets in life, both for entertainment and safety. I will begin, and be more brief with my example for entertainment. Suppose you, like me, were at times (if not always) a gamer. And suppose that you, being said gamer, is with his friends playing a game. In truth, it is good, competitive play and good times are being had by all. But, as the time approaches to be off to a new activity, errand or event, the responsible member of the group deems "this will be our last game". Unfortunately, after hours of GOOD games, you have a complete and utter blow-out. Nobody wants to end that way. The winner feels unchallenged and the losers feel...well not good... But, the claim for "last one has been made". Luckily for us, we now have a rule that can blur the meaning of "one". Upon completion of this so-called "last game" a player may invoke the "one Pop-tart is two Pop-tarts" rule. Thus, a new last game is easy enough to be justified.

My second use for this rule is a much more practical one. Those of you who live in White-Tailed Deer infested regions will know exactly what I'm talking about. Those of you who don't, I suggest you take notes. If you have ever driven a car, and this car that you drove was in a place that had deer, then its likely that you've had to slam on your breaks to avoid hitting said deer and creating an entire Bambi complex for any small children who may be in your car. (If you have not had this experience...I suggest you pay attention.) This is a perfect example of when the Pop-tart rule can be applied. Imagine its late at night and you're driving and you see a deer go frolicking across the road. HIT THE BREAKS. Why you ask? The deer already crossed after all. The reason is "one Pop-tart is two Pop-tarts". There is NEVER just one deer. Much like fishing, "you never catch the one you see". With deer, its not the one that already crossed that you're going to get. And deer NEVER travel alone. Where there is one deer, there is two deer (if not more). So, when you see a deer cross the road, remind yourself that one Pop-tart is in fact two Pop-tarts, slow down, and make sure you know where the rest are.

If you find yourself in another context in which you find this rule particularly relevant, I would love to hear about it. Of the "casual rules and guidelines" that I have created for myself through the years, this is among my favorites and would love to know other examples of contexts that it is particularly useful. Hope you enjoyed. Remember, play more games, same some wildlife!