After six intriguing pieces - I thought a response to each topic would change things up a bit. While I only know most of you through a hello and a handshake, my opinions are just that, so take it in good spirit. Afterall - that's why Brian created this forum, to spur some lively and intellectual debate.

Lance – NOT A CHANCE!

Amongst all those that have written - I am most familiar with Lance - so I’ll be critical to his spin. If we all recall - Lance ended his strongly worded piece with, "Having anything to say? Wanna argue? I’ll win." Well Lance, I'm taking you up on it, and we’ll let the people decide who wins.

Money is not about "chedda, scrilla, benjamins, bling bling, basketball or fine women." They’re just images conjured up through bad rap videos and hastily done movies from Hollywood. Speaking about money is moot. Money is subtler than that. Success does not come from making piecemeal decisions solely based on money. Lance admits that love is foremost important - but wouldn't you base your dating decisions on how rich or poor the girl is? Once again, money rises to the top and I don't believe that stands.

Winning the lottery will not guarantee you the pretty women, the beaches, the limousine rides, or caviar brunches. Realize that rich people hardly ever seem themselves as being rich. A quote says, "A homeless drunk with a million bucks is still just a homeless drunk - a homeless man with food and shelter is much better off"; the spirit of this quote speaks loud. So reconcile with the “cold hard cash” and start learning how to be happy now.

Lam – AIMEN!

I couldn’t agree more with Lam. Sports and exercise foster “hard work, dedication, commitment, and a sense of mental toughness.” At the very least, they make you feel good about yourself, physically and mentally. So get off the couch, turn off MTV, and get moving. You never know until you try it.

Asia – YES!

It’s unfortunate that Asian males are nationally recognized as merely kung fu masters. However, we are still minorities, and it will take time for mainstream media to get use to us. Media companies will continue to publish what people want to see because that goes to the bottom line – right Lance? Someday, the tide will change; afterall, we’re clean cut, confident, motivated, and generous – we got dealt a good hand!

Rachel – HUH?

I have no idea what she’s talking about – I don’t go clubbing to pick up any girls. Those antics seem way too complicated for me, just go up and freak someone – wtf?? – not a chance. Yes, Rachel is right – guys can be fools at clubs. And some girls should wear more – it’s gross to be touching sweaty skin.

Cliff – PERHAPS

I absolutely agree with Cliff there are a lot of Christians who are either misguided or simply participate because they’ve been told to. Just look at the recent rash of pedophilic Roman Catholic priests. Sick. These individuals definitely need to renew their faith elsewhere.

But realize that most people who approach with you religion want good for you. They’ve realized something wonderfully fulfilling and want to share it. Perhaps their methods are crude – to put it in your words – they are bad salesmen. But take it with heart and turn them away politely.

I disagree that religion is used to bank on weak groups of people. Instead religion is used in a very personal sense to heal pain, both physical and mental, irritating or excruciating. Even the most renowned athletes, most powerful businessmen, and celebrated artists are susceptible to heartache and uncertainty. In religion, they find comfort and answers─not necessarily worldly─to life’s mysteries. Everyone, including Christians, has their own agenda, and once you realize that – you take it in stride.

Brodie - ALRIGHT

Good point made – 95% of TV is just a bunch of junk. Even Animal Planet and the History Channel will find a way to distort reality. Once you realize it’s only entertainment – then it’s easy to swallow.

As for college – I didn’t spend $100K just for a diploma. I went because I want a job, right Lance?

Good luck to all of you.

Got any feedback on your mind? A forum is already set up at www.jamesfong.com in his guestbook section