One of the things I have learned since I began writing bowling columns reminds me of the words to an old Ricky Nelson song: Seems you can't please everyone, so you got to please yourself.
Another thing I have learned is that people will write things in an E-mail they would not say to your face. I guess that feeling of anonymity gives them some sort of support.
Finally, I have learned that you get far more compliments than complaints, and those who complain probably will never compliment.
So, I was sitting here going through some of my E-mail and decided that I would give you a sampling of what folks have to say.
One reader wrote in regards to my column on Pete Weber's suspension: "Mr. Wright, Have you been living under a rock? Petie would have been history a long time ago if he didn't have such a high profile Dad. So what if he's a big talent, he's still a jerk."
Well, I think my column reflects my feelings very clearly on Weber. I still think the punishment was too severe, and the bowler who could dominate the tour is sitting home.
On pro wrestling, a reader wrote: "Your [sic] a (expletive deleted) jerk. I like wresteling [sic] and you don't no [sic] what your [sic] talking about. Bowling sucks."
I decided not to get into any discussion with this Harvard graduate. But, I wondered why, if bowling sucks, was he reading a bowling column? I also hope he could read better than he could spell.
Locally, a reader wrote: "You always write about the men's scores and never say anything about the women's scores."
Since I cannot be in every bowling center for every league, I am at the mercy of the league secretaries and bowling center proprietors to provide me with league information. Unfortunately, not all do. But, I am listed in the phone book, and you obviously know my E-mail address to send me this complaint. So, why don't you send me the information you want to see published?
Regarding a column I wrote on smoking in bowling centers, a reader wrote: "Mr. Wright, I recently went bowling for the first time in over ten years. The last time I had bowled was in a youth league. Some friends decided to go bowling one evening, and I realized after we were done that I would not do it again. I have asthma, and the smoke in the bowling center nearly killed me. Until center operators learn that smoking is a negative I won't be back."
The smoking controversy will never be over. I don't smoke and have been in some centers where the proprietors have sufficient smoke extractors to draw out the smoke. I also have been in some where there was a blue cloud hanging over the lanes. Smoke-free leagues are popular. Designated smoking areas, although used, are not the solution. But, I don't see the industry changing much regarding this.
One reader wrote: "Don, my favorite bowler of all time is Earl Anthony. Who's yours?"
I really don't like to pick a favorite anything or anyone because right after I do it, I change my mind. There are many bowlers I deeply respect for many reasons. Right on top are Dick Weber and Bill Lillard. If you have never met these two gentlemen, you have to know they are Gentlemen with a capital "G."
I have not had an opportunity to talk at any length with Johnny Petraglia, but I respect him not only as a bowler but also as a Vietnam veteran.
Mike Aulby is a wonderful role model for our youth bowlers, and he's a writer's dream. Mike is easy to talk to, knowledgeable, and not afraid to say exactly what's on his mind.
The list could go on and on—Joe Norris, Ron Williams, Mike Scroggins, David Ozio, Chris Warren, Doug Kent, Pete Weber, Ernie Schlegel, and many others. That's why I never pick favorites.
Finally, I received a card in the mail. That's right, no E-mail—an actual card in an envelope with a stamp on it. The card pertained to the Texas State Hall of Fame induction of Winford "Win" Cockrell. It read: "Dear Don, I want to pay a personal thank you to you and G.G. for going to the induction banquet Friday night. The fact that you would go to that much trouble meant so much to Win. He and I sincerely appreciate all you've done to make this such a happy time for him. Thank you so much."
The card was signed by Win's wife, Freda. I wouldn't have missed that induction for anything. And, it's so nice to get a card from someone as sincere as Freda.
Keep those cards and E-mail coming, and I'll see you on the lanes.
Don Wright is a member of the Bowling Writers Association of America. Visit his home page.