careycarey

Hi Kitty, If I am not mistaken, I saw you in the blog world today? If you remember (de-friending)we'll start from there. Nope, I don't think you are beating me up, I asked for it. Also, let me take you back a couple of years. I was searching for a word and you gave me "serendipitous". Okay, since I started this post I've received more useful information than I could have imagined. I have no fear of asking questions that others may think are futile. And, I appreciate your (everyones)input. With the suggestions here and at my e-mail, I am a richer man. When it's all said and done, you are right again ol'wise one. It's time for me to zip up my pants and jack up my slacks and do the damn thang. Don't be surpirsed if I knock on your door and say "here, now read this shit" Of course I'd want the discount package and the hookup with your agent. You can't turn me and then right in the middle... turn me off. See you in the upper room. Btw, I've copied and printed every suggestion. Yes, even Cynique's.

Kitty, I hear you on the "piss or get off the pot". But in my own defence, you've been doing this a long time. So I can assume you asked many questions before you made your move. Heck, you're an Ivy league graduate and an instructor. So I am still drinking coffee and still pissing. You're in the upper room. All goodbyes ain't gone. Hello Marissawilson, Thanks! Post your book and/or tell us how it's doing.

Hello SESE, I am glad to see that you still drop by, even though I had to read Cynique's long post in order to shake your hand

Now see, I just got back from a party full of naysayers, and I find myself on the same block. But I must admit, Troy, I did read Kam's picks ( a week ago) and he was on the mark. But, I couldn't find his name attached to the review. I guess I should assume that all the review posted @ AALBC are his unless it says otherwise? But Troy, why is it that people want to attach Mo'nique character to her. I mean, why does she have to have a large resume in order for us to appreciate her brilliant acting? And, why didn't you say this when Thump and I was kickin' it about her and Jamie Fox? Again, you must be on the inside track to Mo'nique's personal life because what specific parts of her performance tells you that see wasn't reaching down to emote feelings or actions that she had never experienced. But you at least compared her to Murphy's Ray, which I think is one of the greastest performances of all time (by a black man). So, although it's my opinion that you are hating on Mo'nique with faulty logic, you at least played it safe. But then again, you're a Star Trek man. Yikes! Troy, you didn't say, but are you in the crowd of those that say Precious shines a bad light on blacks and therefore is a tool for those that want to only show us in a negative way? If so, I bet you don't like horror movies or war flicks. But let me take that back, you probably only like those in which the black person doesn't get killed in the first scene. Oh, I also read Kam's review of Top Cop(?), with Tracy Morgan. I see he didn't like it. I'm going to check it out. After reading his review of Soul Men, I felt he wasn't crazy about it either, but that movie had rollin'

Oh Lawd, why am I not surprised that you, Cynique, have graced this post. But since you are here, I think you hit on something very important... "Traditional" First, there's nothing traditional about a gay wedding. There is no tradition! Now, you would also have to know the people involved. Let me add a few comments from other people and my replies. Maybe there are some soft comments you can make about the facts of their situation You don't have to worry about your spouse leaving the toilet seat up. You can borrow each others clothes. When someone asks to speak to the man of the house you can look to your spouse and say, "Your turn"! Ok seriously. This may be the new normal for some people. Just make it so they don't have to edit you out of the video. Keep the jokes to a minimum to not take away from their special day. Since they asked you, they know you at least a little bit, so they shouldn't be toooooo surprised. Good luck. March 7, 2010 5:52 PM jjbrock said... Carey I've been reading your blog for a while now...So I feel comfortable saying this...Stay away from the jokes please. @SCL, I like! "You don't have to worry about your spouse leaving the toilet seat up." You can borrow each others clothes." When someone asks to speak to the man of the house you can look to your spouse and say, "Your turn"!"March 7, 2010 9:12 PM CareyCarey said... I don't believe this. Two of my longest readers have drop by. I was actually thinking about you 2 when I wrote this post. Most of the opponents to gay marriages come from the religious front. I was actually going to call you 2 to the front of the stage but it worked itself out. Ms, Ann, since you and SLC have been reading my blog, you know I have a hard time with a "blog"/"artistic" voice and the voice I would use in public. So you both are probably right. I have to move away from entertaining the crowd with a "blog" voice. Plus, there will be children there and I know the children of the "groom". So even though (SLC) your jokes were pretty smooth, I now wonder how the children will feel about them. But here's a liitle secret about some gay couples. There's usually one that plays a dominant role. In this case (this couple) I know who cuts the grass and takes out the trash. Thanks for the feedback! I'm still looking for proper names. Like bride and groom or what? P***** said... *Love* the jokes SLC suggested! Also love the idea about sticking to relationship humor. Also, if you know any funny stories about your friend's daughter from when she was younger. You might be OK working some of these jokes in by telling a story about the process you went to in order to arrive at an appropriate humor topic--kind of put the focus on yourself and your own lack of precedence. Just remember that this is their special day: More special because they have family and friends who are risking, perhaps, their own not-so-comfortable feelings to be there to share it with them. One more idea: Why don't you just ask the couple what they are comfortable with? Maybe they were looking for Kat Williams and pimp jokes and would be disappointed if you played it safe. LOL! March 8, 2010 6:20 AM March 8, 2010 6:58 AM CareyCarey said... P*****, I think you are on the mark. "Just remember that this is their special day: More special because they have family and friends who are risking, perhaps, their own not-so-comfortable feelings to be there to share it with them" Yes, this whole thing has kind of split her family. Some are very uncomfortable about even coming to this affair, but they are coming. And therefore, there is a need to lighten the moment. The other woman's mother didn't even know of the marriage, or her daughters sexual preference until 1 month ago. The daughter was very hesitant to tell her mother. In fact, the mother was told by someone else. There was tears but everyone is cool now. Well, as much as they can be. You might have something, ******. "telling a story about the process you went to in order to arrive at an appropriate humor topic--kind of put the focus on yourself and your own lack of precedence" Now, I don't know about Kat Williams type pimp stories :-), but I will ask the couple a few questions before I make a fool of myself and embarrass everyone. Stop it with the Kat Williams, LMBAO. SLC is right, they do know me and they did ask me to run with this. But I don't think they really knew what they were asking for. Well, they've seen me on a different stage, so I'd better keep fielding questions & answers. March 8, 2010 8:04 AM Post a Comment Links to this post The Old Black Church!: Are The Owners Of Christian Bookstores ... March 8, 2010 6:58 AM CareyCarey said... ******, I think you are on the mark. "Just remember that this is their special day: More special because they have family and friends who are risking, perhaps, their own not-so-comfortable feelings to be there to share it with them. March 8, 2010 8:04 AM Yes Cynique, my approach may be tacky, or was going to be tacky, but I am trying to work things out. There's going to be a lot of tension in that room and the bride and groom are not scheduled to arrive at the reception hall until 1 hour after the wedding. My thang starts before the bride and groom arrive, And then yes, when the introductions (and toasts) start jumping off, it will be business as un-usual. But even that will be "different". The "daddy" of one, does not want to say a thang. The mother of the other is still in shock, and therefore will not say a thang. The "court" will all make a grand entrance(the grooms court, will all be wearing tuxedos (although women) and doing their best pimp-stride). There's nothing traditional about these individuals. In fact, that is one reason why I was chosen to do the thang. It's gonna require a bit of adlibing. But wait, did I spell that right? *chuckle*

Chris, your comments are on point. I've ran this by a few more people (@ my blog) and they are saying the same things. Thanks for the feedback and if you have time, stop by there and read their comments. They are exactly like yours! I'm really reaching out for help, because as I've said, I don't want to get shot or get boo-did off the mike.

"Why you keep doubting me is the question?" Well man, I am trying to keep you from being a poor hustler. I mean, your head is big enough and with all that new gray hair, it could be an ugly sight. But then again, I've been reading your book reviews (on AALBC's home page) and those of Kam's (movies)and I might be getting them confused. I mean, ol'boy could use your help. In particular, those interviews of celebrities. That stuff is dry. I could feel the uncomfortable feelings of him and the guests. Also, his movie picks are... well, he could use your help... imo. But Thump, if I didn't keep you in check, who would? I mean, you might start believeing your own hype. I know it's a po' frog that doesn't brag on it's own lilly pad, but I'm just saying...

Okay Thump, you still the man! I mean, you didn't get them all but you were real close. Take a look at your picks. Thumper said, As far as this year's Oscar goes. It's going to go down like this: Best Picture: The Hurt Locker Best Actor: Jeff Bridges - Crazy Heart Best Actress: Meryl Streep or Gabby Sidbie Best Supporting Actor: Christoph Waltz - Inglorious Basterds Best Supporting Actress: Mo'Nique - Precious BEst Director: Kathryn Bigelow - The Hurt Locker Also, Here it goes, right between the eyes. Oscar winners: Best Picture: The Hurt Locker Best Director: Kathleen Bigelow Best Actor: Jeff Bridges Best Actress: Sandra Bullock Best Supporting Actor: Christoph Waltz Best Supporting Actress: Mo'Nique Best Original Screenplay: Up In The Air Best Adapted Screenplay: Precious There it is baby, take it to the bank.

Tierra, I don't think a writer can ever get too much advice. I think it's just the opposite. There are thousands and thousands of well written books... gathering dust! There's loads of books that are stuffed in trunks and attics... gathering dust, because some writers thought they had a good product, and the right advice. In fact, I've read a few books before they went to print, that I knew wouldn't fly, but the author didn't ask my opinion or I was hesitant to tell them the real truth. Sure a writer wants to tell a well written story, but the story has to find an audience. From what I've come to believe, marketing is the key to success. I am taking it all in. Do you have published books?

Hello Ms. Tierra Allen, No, I have not made a final decison, and I'll tell you why. Since I've been a fool, I've now come to believe that fools rush in, where wise men tread not. After having various conversations on this board (great suggestions)and elsewhere (on this subject), I realize that I do not have a keen direction. For instance, today Xeon suggested that I taylor my stories or write my stories with all the grit and details that I can employ. I can do that because the stories are real, however, I am still wondering who would want to read that. In other words, who would be my target audience. Moreso, to do the stories justice(which are already on paper), I have to write about other individuals. That's very problematic. Case in point, one woman that I was involved with, lead a somewhat double life of her own. The details of such (gritty details) are not known by many. Therefore, I question rather or not it's morally proper to disclose such details, or if I leave them out, will it hurt my final product? On the other hand (trying not to give too many details "here") another woman that I was intimately involved with (for years)... well, there's a young man (offspring)presently playing in the NFL. I'll leave that right there. Also, on one occasion, a person overdosed in my home, and died. Now, needless to say, the details of that night and the following day, can go as low as I desire, because the memories are folded in my mind, and to some degree, on paper. But again, how much is too much and whom might I hurt in the process of divulging such information. The stories and/or episodes continue... So, in short Tierra, I am still searching for the proper direction. In fact, I've even considered developing 2 books at the same time. They would be the same stories, written at the same time, but one would be a soft PG version, and in the other, I wouldn't leave any stones unturned. Gritty and real could be good, but who would want to read that, and what would be the ramifications of such? Soft and real could be good, but who would want to read that? Yes, I still need an editor, but backing up, my most pressing need is the minds of those that can formulate a direction. See, money is not the issue, it's more about wasting time and rendering a product that others do not want to read. I don't want to write a book just for the sake of saying I wrote one. Hell, it's already written (rough), but is there a market and/or what is my market? At the present time, I am my only market. As Xeon said, and I agree, it is cathodic, and "I" think the book is rather engrossing. But again, who am I to make such a judgement. Tierra, I know I've said a lot and it might have been somewhat confusing, but that's where I am at today.

Okay, well, that's why I've been asking so many questions. I started this post with "why do you read that". In that question, I was trying to see what's the most essential element to whomevers reading pleasure. So, in considering what my "market" should/could/will be, i am searching for a direction. But of course, my book in waiting will be from a personal angle. Therefore it has to be something along the line of a memior/autobio/realromance-realcrime thang. Yet, even in those limited catagories, each one can get deep. For instance, when I think of a crime, lets say murder or bank robbery, they come in all forms. I've been involved in each, but how graphic/deep should I go? Relationships is another topic that gets deep. I mean, how much is too much to tell (who's the audience). As you may or may not know, at one time I had 2 families at the same time. Each women (and children) have a different story and different endings. Some of it is not pretty. So Xeon, the short reply is... I don't really know, so I am looking for answers and an audience. I can do G rated, PG, R, and X with a twist. No one has ever read my "R" or X rated. It has never left my hands.

Xeon, if we were standing next to each other, I would first ask you, why did you ask the question? Well, because, I think it would have saved a lot of my following reply. You are a good writer. I mean, your posts are well written. Therefore, that tells me something about the person. Consequently, I will assume you asked the question with good intentions. Having said that, my reply is long. So please bare with me. First, I think it’s important for would-be writers to have a defined purpose. I mean, many are in it for the money and yet others do it for a myriad of reasons. To each his own. Well, the following is what I am presently doing (as far as writing goes). Well, let me back up. I originally started writing in my journal as a way to ease my pain. Through that experience (and after) I found a love of expressing myself on paper. I am a “talker” by trade (part-time). Writing is somewhat of an extension of that. So, I dabble, which takes me here.... A call out, some time ago: [newspaper]We asked readers with something to say to make a bid to be one of our regular columnist. Boy, did you. Thanks. We're pleased to say that once again judging the competition was stiff for publisher Kenneth Taylor, managing editor Roger Ruppert and editorial page editor Ken Rows. While many of those who entered would have been excellent additions to our pages, we're pleased with the collection of writers whose work ....< > They are: u Peter Hotle, 27, was born and raised in Rockford and still lives there. He's the middle of five children and his parents still live in the house in which he grew up. A graduate of Rockford High School, he attended *****College and graduated from ***** College with a degree in history. He is pursuing a master's in business administration at St. Cloud University and works at *****research. His interests: Young professionals who are committed to staying here and being leaders in our community. This Wednesday’’s offering, a call to action to help keep young people in our community. u Susan is an author, historian and quilting aficionado. Her research, writings and photographs about the history of quilts and textiles have been widely published. One of the founders of the Illinois Quilt Study Group in lona, Iowa, you can find her Web site, Quilt History: Quilt from the Midwest, at She also writes a blog called the Needle: History Conversation from the Midwest and another about movies and literature. She lives on a grain farm in Atkin with her husband and a rescued red beagle-mix. She writes, "I could be your grandmother, your mother, your sister, your Auntie, your friend, or your next door neighbor." u Carey < > u Steve **** is a name with which most of our readers are no doubt familiar, and not just because a new park rising on the city's North Shore bears his name. Besides practicing law in the area for the past 34 years, he was the mayor of Iowa ****. He cut his teeth on politics, first as alderman from 1981-1989 before taking the mayor's seat, from which he retired last year. He knows the area and he's also intimately familiar with the assets and challenges of all the region. He's served and/or chaired the Bi-State Regional Commission, ******** Task Force, and the ***** City Development Group. His leadership on the ***** panel has earned him particularly high marks. Politics, however, is just one of side of his character. He is a talented painter and an avid student of history who will bring a unique perspective to our pages. u Terry **** of Champaign has lived in the area since 1975. The graduate of the University of Illinois has been a committee chair for the *****Classic (and its other incarnations) for two decades. He's a two-time Senior Olympics gold medalists in the trivia competition and has run the Mile High for the past 28 years. He has 30 years in human resources, most recently at the Metropolitan Medical Laboratory who, for a brief time 30 years ago, worked as a stringer for The Daily Monitor. He is married to a nurse, and adds, "I enjoy movies and reading and I love dogs." That's evident in his offering, a salute to the family's Maltese, Daisy. Thanks to all who took the considerable time we know it takes to enter... < >. Once again, the quality and quantity of entries surprised us and narrowing the field to just five was a challenge. So, if you weren't picked, please, don't be discouraged. We'll do this again. In the meantime, please enjoy offerings of this round's winners in Viewpoints. Xeon, the above muckety mucks that I am included with, write sh*t that I don’t even read. And apparently, my view is shared by many others. Well, the “hits” and “comments” tell the story. My foolishness/column swamps theirs. So, with that encouragement, I continue to write. But see, I am not a writer but I like telling stories. So here we are. I asked for help in writing a memior/book, because even though some people like reading my material, and my “voice” is okay, my structure sucks. Take for instance the following piece. I have a friend that has her masters in English. She shifts and shapes my pieces before I send them to the publisher. The voice is mine, and so are most of the words, but I am going to show you the finished product and then the mess as it was originally written by me. In my column, I try to stay with a personal theme. Oh, I am suppose to stay under 800 words, which is very hard to do (for me). So sometimes I have to do a 2-3 part series. Part I Is Twitter A “Drive-By, Say Hi”? My mother never learned how to drive! I have so much to say in so little time. However, if I can borrow a tag line from an old cigarette commercial...“I’d rather fight than switch”. Well, if I were Twittering or texting, I’d be limited to 140 characters, or less. But, those limitations are not the sole reasons behind my discontent. I’ve often wondered if the world is nurturing a generation of “Drive-By, Say Hi” robots? Could we be ushering a generation of individuals that lack the interaction skills that are necessary to build great character? Since I do not know the evil that lurks in the hearts of all men, I have to bring this story to my doorstep. My mother is 85 years old and she has never driven a car. If that’s not something that rings your bell, how would you feel if your family did not have a car or a telephone! Well, for many years, our family had neither. Needless to say, Twitter, Text Message, Face Book, or any hook, did not grace our palms. But look, do not feel sorry for us, because as the sayings go “one man’s garbage is another man’s treasure” and “everything that glitters is not gold” My mother was a stay at home mom. When my father went to work, she prepared his lunch at home. He worked at American Container Corporation. As soon as the fresh and delicious morsels came out of the pot, skillet or oven, mom put them in a paper bag, and I scurried down to my dad’s place of employment. Although it was a hit and miss occurrence, when dad received it, he appreciated everyone’s effort. I usually received a nickel or a dime, and a big smile. Plus, I had the great opportunity to sit with him and the rest of the men. It was one of my first glimpses at role models and how they, as men, interacted with each other. One of those men was the Quad Cities renowned fast-pitch softball instructor and coach, Dale Mattlick. Dale, who was also the pitcher for the company softball team, lived on the outer fringes of the Tri Cities as did many of the other players. Therefore, after the games, the team came to our home to have a few beers and talk about their victory or loss. My uncle Lavance and his family are Catholics. They were members of St Joseph, a small Catholic church in the West End of Blue Island. At that time, we were members of Second Baptist Church, and we walked there. As both families left their homes on Sunday morning, each passed by the Jewish Synagogue that was located on 9th street, between 5th and 6th avenue. Unlike some Baptist churches that can be heard from blocks away, the Jewish members were a quiet lot. However, when they were around, they always gave a tip of the hat or a respectful nod. When I look back on my life, I am reminded in so many ways, that I am a product of my environment. Sometimes I sit and wonder... Who would I be if the softball team didn’t come by our home? They came, and I was afforded the opportunity to see that people who lived in the outlying areas of the Quad Cities, like many of them, were no different than me. They may have come from a different culture, but they drank beer, talked about their wives, ate too much and passed gas, just as all men are prone to do. If we had a phone, we may have called our church to inform them that my father and I wouldn’t be coming to fulfill our roles as ushers, and thus, missed the fellowship that’s an integral part of the development of any man. And, if we had a car, it’s possible, we wouldn’t have stopped to talk to our neighbors, like the old Jewish gentlemen. Their religion, as my uncle’s religion, was different than ours, but they were just men, just like my father. If we had a car, would I have the memories of the pride on my father’s face and the smell of the fried lunchmeat sandwiches, meat loaf, fried chicken, or thinly sliced spam, that permeated from the bags that I protected as if they were gold? I’ve received many serendipitous rewards from a world without Twitter and the other social internet connections, but Oh boy, look at the time, I may have over-extended my stay . That’s why I do not Twitter, my friends! It’s hard to kiss and say goodbye. Real love is not a fleeting glance. To be cont.... ~Carey Xeon, this post is getting long. I will post the “before” or unedited copy of that whimsical piece (maybe), but if you answer my original question, I will continue to try to answer yours (if you still desire me to do so). I told you this post was long :-)

Wait a minute Troy, I think Linda should pay some dues before she gets a seat at the grown-ups table. I mean, the last time we saw her slumming in this neck of the woods, she was a detective down in Mississippi. Now she wants to be Cyniquinaut. *Waving @ Linda*

Excellent points, Troy. That's exactly what I'll be writing about. I believe the invention/use of these items (although useful, in the eyes of many) have caused a grave disconnect within the "family" unit. And just like your example of the rude girl, I question how these devices play into the mores/habits of certain cultures. In this case, as you mentioned, we could be developing a new generation of individuals they may be missing those important interaction skills that are necessary to build good character. Now, because I write for a family friendly newspaper, I have choosen to wrap my piece (this piece) around a personal family experience. Well, we never had a car, nor a telephone. I'll start from there.

See Troy, that's why I like you, everytime I got low on my stash, I knew who had the good weed *LOL*. Man, how did you know that I once separated the weed from the seed, by using LP covers? But Troy, of course everything you say is true. I hate to say this, but it's hard to teach an old dog... new tricks. I mean, I can do them, but when you get to be my age (and have fallen down), it's easiser to see what's really important, and the difference between something that "seems" to be important. But again, whatever makes the person happy/comfortable, then hey, it's their thang. But it's hard for me to pass up a chance to holla at those old grisly women. In my next column (part-time day job), I'm doing something with this theme (Twitter, facebook, instant communication, etc), in relation to how it affects the core of "family life" and/or the family unit. It's not going to center on a person's immediate family (although part of it), but also a person's social life, in and around his neighborhood and his extended family. I've been gathering feedback (as in this post), to use as counterpoints. Then I am going to analize the payoff.

So LiLi, is that what it is? I mean, I don't know how to do what? Use Twiiter? Come on Scare Crow... I mean LiLi, admit it, you’re just lost in a Poppy Field. I mean, you're doing what? Following? What's with "follow me on Twitter"??!! That sounds like something Dorothy would say to the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion... "follow me down the Twitter (yellow brick) road". See, I've been called a dog but I am not Toe-Dough or Toto. I mean, follow you where? Listen, Twitter ain’t nothing but a Drive-by shooting. They should call it Jitter because any ol'crackhead could say "Hi, whatcha doing, catch ya later". I mean, WTH is going on? Really, isn't that system like a drive-by shooting.... BANG BANG, you're dead -see you later. If a clown calls me on the phone and says, "Whats up man, am going to the movies tonight"... and then hangs up, I am done with his ass. I mean, really, they could have missed me with that one. Who wants to read twitter, I mean, a "drive-bye" (140 characters) shout out? Don't get me wrong, I love the give and take of a good conversation (even Cynique’s) but Damn, isn't Twitter akin to somebody knocking on your door, and then punching you in the face. Then,they're off to punch another idiot. I mean, who drops by your house and says 10 words and then leaves? What's that mess about? Don't get me wrong, on some occasions a short reply is just what the doctor ordered, but am just saying... For real, is there a rewards program for short bursts of "hello, am gone"? Really, I need to know because I can use a plastic key chain. Maybe it's just this new generation of X-boxers and BET-ers? Maybe I should blame it on Rap music - that's it...... "BOOM BOOM BOOM.... grab my nuts... am gone" WTH? To tell the truth, I am really pissed off because I should have invented that mess. I mean, the advertising slogan wouldn't be that complicated... "TWITTER! Come on by. You don't have to say a goddam thang and you can't stay long - just drive-by" Twitter is like pissing in the river. A whole lot of swinging pricks could release their streams down the bank of the river, and the tide wouldn't rise, Cuz, that steam is going to stop in about 20 seconds. I mean, come on, WTH is Twitter? Jitter Bug - Twitter Bug - Tweety Bird - LiLi Bird. What kind of bird don't fly? What kind of people tweet? Granted, Twitter seems to be a way to catch groupies, but I am talking about them pimp or die tweet-sweets. Now I ain't talking about nobody, but is strictly tweet for dead heads? Maybe it's for people that watch porn flicks by themselves? I don't know, am just asking. I mean, who watches porn flicks for the sound?? I mean, ain't that just like Twitterettes, they ain't sayin a goddam thang? I know...... I know, “Carey, STFU!” but at least I’m saying it long & loud... like I’m fat and proud. You show me a trench coat wearing flasher and I'll show you a Tweet Sweet. Of course I am kidding about them being sweet, but I bet most of them can be found trolling on the Internet and Twitterland, for underage girls... "hello, my name is Johnny, how old are you - tweeeeeet?" If you ever see me tweeting, call the loony wagon because I 've lost my F**kin' mind. Nawl Miss LiLi, you got me all messed up. Ain’t no shame in my thang. I just ain’t prone to follow (or sniff) some negroes behind.

Travis Smiley needs to sit his dumb-ass down somewhere. He has to be the most fortunate black man I've ever seen. I mean, what is he bringing to the table except a kiss-ass attitude. I bet he pees sitting down. That nigga should be on the jacket cover of the Ojay's hit "Back Stabbers". I never liked him from the jump, with his fat puggy face ass. He just seemed (to me) like a brotha that's not to be trusted. And when he statred pecker pulling with those easy-credit-ripoff artist, I really was done with his ass. And now this!

Actually... my DC Soul-Sister with the misplaced blister, this is my very first time clicking on ths thread. See, Although Thump is a little older than I (close but older) please don't get us confused. Thumper started this thread. I just stopped in to see how normal people act. I mean, the book suggestion were great but I almost feel asleep midway through the dang thang. But Yeah, I have to admit that Cynique brings out the worst in me. But I am glad that you also put her in check. But please don't mention her name. This has been a nice civil thread. I might come through here more often. If nothing else, I can pick up a few names of some serious sounding authors and then drop them at a party of important negroes. I might even sell a few beer cans and buy one of the books. Then I'll stick it under my arm when I go to my next NAACP meeting. That's sure to get me a few votes for King POOPAH. I'm going to stay away from anything LiLi is reading because... well. Anyway, I'm looking at the one book about the West Indian Domestic in Canada. Now, is it me, or. Well, I think I'll pass on that one, and instead read about Blanche. (Yeah, only Thump knows a bout Blanche) Now, Thump may be cheap, but he knows a little something about good books. So if he says the old one drop white man is a good read, I'd be inclined to believe him. But Troy, I don't know about him. However, mamma knows best, so his posts are a push. Okay my Soul Sister, since you put me in check, I'll try to maintain a sense of sensibility. Dang, I thought my mother lived in Illinios *lol* But remember,I didn't start this, Thump did. Blame it on the Naptown Nappy Yappy.

Quick... Rabbi Marvin Hier? What, his name is not on the Who's Who of the great black leaders of history. Well, of course not. How about Simon Wiesenthal, have you heard of him? Of course you have... I think? Rabbi Marvin Hier is the Dean and Founder of the Los Angeles based, Simon Wiesenthal Center. But Carey, what does that have to do with Black History Month? Well, I can show you, better than I can tell you. Come on, I'm gonna take you by a friend's house. He's actually a turtle but we are going to listen in on a conversation between him and The Wizard. There they are over there, over there by that Wishing Well. Hush up, be quiet, listen: Wizard: "Twizzle Twazzle Twizzle Trone, time for this one, to come home" Little Wannabe Turtle: *yelling* "Help me Mr. Wizard... Mr. Wizard, MISTER WIZARD!" Wizard: "How many times I tell you? Be just what you is and what you is not. Those that do this, are the happiest lot" See, the turtle had a propensity to ride off on journeys that could be called "Fool's errands". He once found himself defenseless in the face of a fire breathing dragon. All his fantasies sounded real sweet, and in the books, they looked real good. But he soon found out that there's nothing like the real thang. Wizard: "Come on good buddy, we're taking a trip" Little Tudor Turtle: "Where are we going?" Wizard: "We are going to Black History" Little Tudor Turtle: "Wait, I already know about the peanut and the spook who sat by the door. I mean, last years, during Black History Month, we learned about Lorraine Hansberry and Adam Clayton Powell." Wizard: "Well my bumpy shelled little friend, Lorraine Hansberry did not write, "The Spook That Sat By The Door". "So come along, I think you and a few other people (Negroes) need a little schooling... I think you need the real thang" Little Turtle: Wait, that's by Marvin Gay & Tammy Terrel... "ain't nothing like the real thang baby" Wizard: See, that's what's wrong with some Negroes. They know all there is to know about sport and play, and can sing like the birds, but are they passing down the real thang? Turtle: But Mr. Wizard, what's this real thang that you keep talking about Wizard: Shut your mouth and you might learn something. Look at those happy-go-lucky Negroes over there. Down there sitting at that round table. The scene shifts to a room full of black faces. It's an auditorium filled with youth and their parents. On the stage, at a chalk board, a young black kids hurries to write a name... He can be heard saying the letters as he meticulously forms their outline. Black kid: "T.H.E T.U.S.K.E.G.E.E A.I.R.M.E.N." The Crowd: "That's right!" "That's my son!" "Tell the truth Boy" "That boy is smart!" After a series of questions, another black youth is seen standing at the chalk-board. He begins: "W.I.L.L.I.A.M W.E.L.L.S B.R.O.W.N" The Crowd: "SAY IT LOUD BOY!" "Oh shit, we gotta battle now" "Oh lawd, dem boys knows what they talkin' bout" The little turtle is excited because he had never heard of many of the championed black heroes. But the Wizard had seen enough. The Wizard had seen history in all it's ugliness. Consequently, he thought those jovial Negroes, those image conscience leaders of the black race, needed a taste of the real thang. With a crisp movement of his magical wand, he appeared on stage in front of the mesmerised and stunned crowd. Wizard: "Hear Ye, my mislead black friends. Black History Month should be just what it is and not what it's not. Negroes that know the real truth, is the happiest lot. And, btw, that's a lot" Crowd: "Get outta here you crazy white man. We are free to do as we please" Little Tudor Turtle: "Come on Wiz, lets get out of here, they are all hyped on that Jeopardy game of "Name That Negro". And see, I can understand their disdain because I don't know what you are trying to say, either" Wizard: "Do you remember the name Simon Wiesential? Well, he was a Nazi Hunter. Today... TODAY, I am talking about the retched inhumanity of slavery. See, the Jewish community didn't spend their time and money on feel good board games. They didn't have time for that nonsense. They built a center that sees over 1/2 million visitor a year! It was founded to challenge visitors to confront bigotry and racism and to understand the Holocaust in both historical and contemporary context. They know they can't afford the luxury of ever forgetting the REAL thang. The American Negro is tranquilized. They rest with their bellies full of special holidays and passes to the good neighborhoods and good government jobs and good straight hair and light skin" Little Misguided Tudor Turtle: Please Mr. Wizard, you're making me feel uncomfortable. Besides, slavery wasn't as bad as the Holocaust, so we should just let it go. If I was a slave... The Wizard: "Hold it right there, the Jews were some of the first slaves and I am going to let you have your wish. I am going to take you back to the shores of Africa. I'm going to be with you, but you will not be able to see me, but you will be able to hear me. When you have a problem, speak to me and I'll respond" Little Turtle: "BUT!"The Wizard: "But nothing, lets go" The little turtle has again made his move too soon. The wizard waved his magic stick and the turtle was off to Africa. We see he's a proud king standing over his flock. He's in the Congo. It's a hot and humid summer day. He hears a cry from far off in the brush. Then the scene changes. We hear the voice of the little turtle. Little Turtle: *yelling* "Mr Wizard!" "Mr Wizard!" Wizard: "Be quiet my son, there's nothing you can do now. You're in the bottom of a dark and dank slave ship" Little Turtle: "But where is my father?" "Where is my mother?" Wizard: "It doesn't matter now, you will never see them again. Conserve your energy and hold on to life. How do you feel?" Confused Little Turtle: "My back is on fire and there's an awful smell around me" Wizard: "That smell is death! That man chained next to you died several days ago. The man laying above you is dying of dysentery. That substance on your chest and the rest of your body, is his bowel movement, and the feces of several slaves in the tiers above him. Lay still, that pain in your back is your flesh being rubbed off by the movement of the ship. Please hold on. Only one third of you will make it through this middle passage. You are not even half way there. STAY ALIVE!" Turtle: "But where am I, and where am I going?" Wizard: "you are in a place that some would call a living hell, and you are traveling to an evil land" Hundreds of days later Weak and dying little Turtle: "Mr. Wizard, why have we stopped and what is that sound hitting the ship?" Wizard: "You have arrived at your new home. It is a place called America. You are a slave. You are chattel that will soon be owned by an exploiter of black humans. Your wife is on another ship. Your sister died in the middle passage. While your brother was being lead to the top deck of his dungeon, he jump into the sea. He could no longer bare his pain. You may never see your wife again. It's possible that she may not want to ever see you again, because she will be raped and brutalized by her new slave masters. The product of those brutal attacks, her children by her new master, will also be slaves to be sold, or to be used to produce more slaves. Those sounds that you hear outside of the ship, are the bodies of slaves that were thrown overboard from several miles out to sea. They died in the final leg of the journey and their bodies have drifted inland. The Governor of the state of South Carolina is appalled at the sight of those bodies. Not because of the death of humans but because of the stench of the bodies floating in his harbor" Suffering Little Turtle: "OH HELP ME LORD, I don't want to be a slave anymore! How many are like me? How many of my people have died" Wizard: "You asked how many have died on this journey? MILLIONS! This has been going on for hundreds of years. The Holocaust lasted a few years. There will be a severe price to pay for your freedom, if you ever achieve it!" Turtle: "I will run, I'd rather die trying to gain my freedom, than to live a life that's less than a dog's" Wizard: "Run then, when you get a chance, and may God be with you" Several years later, the little turtle that wanted to be a slave, is seen withering in pain. He tried to escape his bondage. Turtle: "Mr. Wizard, what is this pain!? What is happening to me" The Wizard: "You have been branded like cattle with hot irons, for your repeated attempts to run to freedom" A FEW YEARS LATER: The little turtle is seen holding on to life. He has been castrated for his last attempt at freedom. Other slaves are seen hanging from tree with their genitals stuffed in their mouths. Word has spread that hundreds of freed black are being burned at the stake for a protest in the State of New York. the resilience, courage and spirit of the black man can not be broken. Angola Warriors started an uprising on the coastline of South Carolina. They tried to make it to a free colony in the State of Florida. They failed, all were killed. Wizard: "Twizzle Twazzle Twizzle Trone, time for this one, to come home. "How many times I tell you? Be just what you is and what you is not. Those that do this (people and turtles), are the happiest lot" The Little Turtle and the Wizard sat down for a long conversation. The wizard explained to the turtle that some Negroes believe they have arrived and thus, feel no need to pass down the real thang. They are content with their month of celebration and have forgotten their real past struggles. They's rather dress to impress and win the big prize that goes along with knowing that famous black negro. The Jewish community has places like the Simon Wiesenthal Center. The Black American has the NAACP and Black History Month. Are we there yet?

ALAS!!! I knew you would come home, Cynique. You wrote: "His latest is a BAB but I'm wading through it because it's my cup of tea, right up my alley! For years I've been doing all of this babbling about the secrets of life and the old wisdom and metaphysics and quantum physics, and upon deciding to check out this book, everything I've always pondered about is brought to light!!!! Mind blowing!" See, wasn't that easy? You told us "why" you are reading that book. Woman, why oh why did you take us through that journey of hide & go seek.? You knew from the jump what I was talking about. And don't get it twisted. Although you call me Crystal's cast-off, she's a strong black woman that has no problem sharing her opinion. You may intimatate some, or they chose not to get in yo' mess, but Crystal has been a "friend" for many many years. I've managed to get on her nerves on several occassion (and she mine), but she has also been doing this for several years. And blood is thicker than water. She's lemonaid, you're tap water Tell us more about that book. What's the writing style?

That's right! I want a divorce. She doesn't cook anymore and she keeps scratching me with those long crusty toe nails. I am tired of her snoring, and I am tired of sleeping on the couch. And if she asks me one more question, I'm gonna be like Jackie Gleason and send her [Alice] to the moon. The Honey-Moon is OVER!

Hey Chris, another guy said what you are saying but he said it like this: You know I'm with you on the twitter angle. I use it primarily as a notification service but besides that it's text messaging to the world. I had to get talked into it by one of the cats who read my blog who told me I should embrace it. Real talk it's the dumbest ish created since the comfort wipe! I had those drive by bloggers too. The game is they get more links to their website and they appear higher on the google search engine. I call it NERD publicity! Real talk you have to understand what age we are in. People just love NEW, it doesn't matter what the hell it is as long as it's new. So if they came up with Iphone App to translate your voice into a Irish guy then the same Technology Nerds would make up a stupid ass name about that too. You aren't out of touch you just see that the ish is useless! It's like paying 5K for granite countertops and saying that's a deal breaker on a new house! We have a lot of dumbass people with degrees circle banging each other while entertaining over there 6 burner stove!

I burdened you?! Is that right? I didn't force you to read any of this. I believe you LOVE this "I asked???" Well, let me remind you of your very first statement, the one in which YOU engaged ME. "Why do people have to analyse why and what they read or justify their reasons to people like you who have the gall to pose such a question???. Sooooooo Cynique.... I don't know why you insist on crying wolf. You're not fooling anyone. I could be like Xeon(sp?) and address your baited comments in a civil way but that wouldn't be me and it wouldn't be any fun. Plus, it would make a bad player out of you. In reference to my "TKO". It's simply saying that another love connection didn't connect. But wait, maybe you really do love me? Here you go baby... **smooches & deep hugs** Call those things that are not, as if they already are. Hey, btw, I am not the only one that talks about my best subject. You do a damn good job "talking about me". Thank You very much. Keep up the good work!

"Who gives a shit? I don't. Why would I?" Well, you knocked on my door. You asked and I replied. But again, as always, it looks like another love TKO! Until we meet again,and I am sure we will , have a good day.

[Carey] you are a duplicitious, slippery, chameleon, "Careless", deluded doofus, grotesque,multiple personality sociopath, long-winded bore,unfunny,half-cocked goof ball. Thanks Cynique, I'll add them to my list. No I am not Oprah, but your very presence here today, tells me that I have to march on. Did you watch the Tiger Woods press conference? Well, after that, there's been a survey asking if Tiger can ever be a role model again. Now, hold that thought. As you may know, I've been to jail for bank robbery, okay. Well, that's been many years ago. However, there will always be people with a mindset similar to yours. During my earlier years of crime, I had a defense attorney who is know a District Judge. She's followed my path to where I am now. One time I had to reach-out to her because I ran into a few of what I will call "business associates" that had the same "never forget and never forgive" attitude as you. She wrote a letter of recommendation that I will never forget. She didn't pull any punches. Aside from my public record, she included negative things that I had only shared with her. Basically she was saying that she knew the individual(me) and where he came from. Her reputation was on the line and she didn't want to give the impression that her letter was a cookie cutter copy of a standard letter of recommendation. After her assent to the bench, she has keep her foot in my ass. Well, it hasn't been a kick in the ass, it's been words of encouragement. She has used me to say that people can change. At the end of her letter she said this... "Carey's life has NOT been one of a choir boy, however, a choir boy can not lead individuals out of the "fires" that he's been through" But you're right Cynique, I still have some work to do. I am going to start by changing that "ugmo" picture. It could give a false impression. And yes, I do write to entertain myself. It's sort of cathartic. It reminds me of places and things that I don't ever want to return to. You wrote a book... why? Btw, as you know, this is Black HISTORY Month. Malcolm X "WAS" a womanizing, drug using robber. "FREE AT LAST, FREE AT LAST, THANK GOD OH MIGTHTY, I'M FREE AT LAST"