I was reminded of this story by Peter R's Defamation post in the Nothing to do with Woodworking section.
A man dies and on reaching the Pearly Gates is told that he is not booked into the upper house.
Philisophically he goes down to hell and is greeted by the devil. The man explains his predicament and the devil pronounces that they do not descriminate and will take anyone who shows up. By the way, he asks the man what he does. The man replys that on earth he was an engineer. The devil asks if he builds things and the man replies "You bet."
The devils eyes light up (red) and he declares there is plenty of work for him.
After a period of time the almighty casts a glance down to the lower house and sees all kinds of development going on. He decides to telephone the devil and find out.
Devil: Devil here.
Almighty: Almighty speaking. Looks like there are some things happening down there. What gives?
Devil: You betcha. We have this engineer bloke here who's a bloody marvel. He's built viaducts, contour banks, bridges, canals and there is a mountain of projects planned.
Almighty: I've been consulting our guest list and there has been a terrible mistake. He should be up here where belongs.
Devil: You had your chance. You blew it. He's staying here.
Almighty: Come on now, you know he should have been here all along.
Devil: Sorry bro, you messed up and we've got him.
Almighty: If you do not return him you will be sorry!
Devil: Oh yeah? I'm tellin' ya he's stayin'.
Almighty: I'll,.... I'll sue!
Devil (laughing): Come on now, be sensible, where are you going to find a lawyer up there?
Regards and Happy New Year
Paul
PS I know some really nice people who are lawyers.