This is a short story which floats around the Internet in different variations. While its been debunked as being untrue, it nevertheless is a funny little reminder on the importance of humility.
In the darkest part of the night, a warship plowed through fog-shrouded waters. With straining eyes, the Admiral on deck scanned the hazy darkness, searching for dangers lurking just out of sight.
Then his worst fears were realized when he saw a bright light straight ahead. It appeared to be a vessel on a collision course with his ship. To avert disaster he quickly radioed the oncoming vessel.
“This is Admiral Smith,” his voice crackled over the radio. “Please alter your course 10 degrees south! Over.”
To the Admirals amazement, the foggy image did not move. Instead, he heard back on the radio, “Admiral Smith. This is Seaman First Class Johnson. please alter your course 10 degrees north! Over.”
Appalled at the audacity of the message, the Admiral shouted back over the radio, “Seaman First Class Johnson, this is Admiral Smith, and I order you to immediately alter your course 10 degree south! Over.”
A second time the oncoming light did not budge. “With all due respect Admiral Smith,” came the voice again, “I order you to alter your course immediately 10 degrees north! Over.”
Angered and frustrated that this impudent sailor would endanger the lives of his men and crew, the Admiral growled back over the radio, “Seaman Johnson. I can have you court-marshaled for this! For the last time, I command you to alter your course 10 degrees to the South! I am a battleship!”
The lowly Seaman held firm; “Admiral Smith, sir. Once again with all due respect, I command you to alter your course 10 degrees to the North! I am a lighthouse!”