2002-03-06 | 8:01 p.m.

corduroy licorice would often fold under pressure. he'd only help his mom put away the laundry if she made threats against him.

***

i was listening to the election news last night. every time the reporter would say "gary condit's concession speech," i'd hear:

"gary condit's confession speech."

***

i'm still mulling over the decision to move to the next level of comedy improv classes. part of my hesistation is the $400 price tag for the 12-week course. the other part is that i have to get a headshot done.

something of the 8x10 glossy of oneself smacks of vanity to me. oddly, that's even more of a deterrent than having to stand up and audition in front of a new teacher and a dozen strangers, making funny-like on command.

i was explaining my dilemma to a co-worker and he counseled me with these poignant words:

"don't let $400 bucks and a headshot stand between you and your dreams."

damn straight, dude! damn straight. considered me heartened.

the only catch is, is it my dream? it's more of a hobby at this point. i'm not gunning for snl fame. i just like to yuk it up, is all. hmmm...

***

do you think so many teenagers have drug problems because they go to high school?

i think we, as a society, need to take a long, hard look at how we name things...and at how those names may be a detriment to others. like, for instance, strip malls. what kind of message is that sending???

***

i know perceptions gets enough press and web luv as it is, but i must join the greek chorus of praise with this cool quote from his journal:

"before and after it rains, the air smells different. i just took out a bag of trash and threw it in the dumpster. everything outside was covered in beads of water, and a breeze fluttered my shirt. instead of going inside again, i walked around on grass that felt like a sponge. for a moment i only wanted what i had. i heard faint wind chimes. i was devoid of desires. all my teeth-gritting, shadow-boxing restiveness was gone. squinting skeptically, i was like, what the hell is this feeling?"

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