Terri Miles: A refresher course in driving while Indian in Oklahoma

It was a beautiful night out with unusually cool air. July in Stroud, Oklahoma? No way! Full stop at the railroad crossing, smooth acceleration, and we're off cruising down the road, my favorite place to be. Should be back in 10ish minutes.

A car I didn't see until he flashed his headlights at me was parked on the opposite side of the road, which confused me for a second. Is this some weirdo I'm going to have to deal with? Damn. I left my gun home on purpose because there are no weapons allowed on our tribe’s land.

I'll just have to handle the situation. Wait, I have a kid in the car. How do I protect us both? I have no problem fighting for myself, but I have to make sure my tactics allow her the least possible damage.

And then the bubble lights go on. Oh shit! What the hell? What the fuck was I doing wrong that gets me stopped? I know my headlights are both operational. Couldn't have run my plates; besides, I have nothing on record. I made a full stop at that railroad crossing. I wasn't swerving. I am not black. I'm not really dark, despite public consensus that I'm not white…oh...the powwow.