ETHNICALLY SPEAKING

Larry Meeks
Sat, 09 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0800
Lifestyle

Dear Larry: My neighbor knew I stopped reading our local paper because of the junk and bias it prints. Every so often, she will bring me articles of importance. Your column is one she always shares. The one titled "My Wish for Black America" caused me to put pen to paper — or, should I say, fingers to keys.

Because I am a retired schoolteacher, I especially liked your wanting education to be valued more than sports. Please keep up the good work, and be advised that I am renewing my subscription just so I won't miss your column. — A.C.

Dear A.C.: Thank you for the kind words. Read on for other reactions.
Updated: Fri Jan 08, 2010

Dear Larry: My neighbor knew I stopped reading our local paper because of the junk and bias it prints. Every so often, she will bring me articles of importance. Your column is one she always shares. The one titled "My Wish for Black America" caused me to put pen to paper — or, should I say, fingers to keys.

Because I am a retired schoolteacher, I especially liked your wanting education to be valued more than sports. Please keep up the good work, and be advised that I am renewing my subscription just so I won't miss your column. — A.C.

Dear A.C.: Thank you for the kind words. Read on for other reactions.

From Don: I agree with your wishes for black America 100 percent. I wish our president and others would see the light like you. I plan on keeping this news article and showing my friends there are people out there who understand the problems America is having.

From Sarah: What gives you the right to make wishes for black America? Who are you? I don't believe you are black because no black person thinks like you. I don't agree with anything you said.

If you really are black, you should be ashamed of yourself. By the way, do me a favor and don't call yourself black. I think "Uncle Tom" is a better title.

From Paul: I am black and agree with your desires for black America. What you are wishing for does not just apply to blacks; it applies to everyone, regardless of color. If your wishes come true, it will make us a better country.

From Don: Bravo! May you and Bill Cosby live forever.

Dear Larry: I do not read a newspaper on a regular basis but did so today. I was fortunate to find your article titled "My Wish for Black America."

I found it to be a sensible and timely wish list, much of which could be applied to Americans in general. The reason I'm writing to you is to ask for an electronic copy of this article. Let me explain why I need a copy.

I am a retired physician, and a local chapter of the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs has given me an open invitation to teach at a parenting class it is sponsoring.

I hope to be able to speak to this group on values — such as self-worth, self-confidence and self-esteem — and other related issues, such as honesty, integrity, character and citizenship.

A copy of your article would be a valuable addition to my planned remarks. Please consider my request, because the community could use your words, and may God continue to bless you. — Dr. RD

Dear Dr. RD: I wish you much success with your class. I know you will do a good job. You can get a copy of the article by contacting Creators Syndicate. Go to creators.com, and click on "B2B." Then click on "Permission Requests." Fill out the necessary form (my column is under "Ethnically Speaking"), and someone will get back to you.