407 Comments

Kareem, I think you should begin sharing a minute or so of a Trump speech clip each week.

It's very effective... I think many of his supporters would see it if included by you. No comment necessary, just a carefully selected clip showing how insane he is.

This could really have an impact on some people, even if a small number it would be well worthwhile.

Expand full comment

The hip replacement operation is very successful. I have had one in each hip and the pain has disappeared completely. I am a special fan of Manhattan Transfer’s music direct and pianist, Yaron Gershovsky. I met him while watching a baby seal on Waikiki Beach. I recognized him as I had been at their show at the Blue Note the night before. Good luck to you!

Expand full comment

I am so glad you are okay! Wishing you a joyous New Year! I thank you for your wonderful outlook on life...at a time that often seems grim. Stay well and keep writing!

Expand full comment

Shout out to Aaron Gordon - bro, I was bitten by a pit bull over the summer, so I feel you (the owner said "it's okay to pet him. He's friendly.") I am an animal lover, and love dogs, but now I'm just a little more cautious. Oh! I was also chased, and nearly bitten, by another pit bull while doing my cycling two days later. I have nightmares about the latter.

Expand full comment

Still holding you in my heart Kareem. Hope you're recovery is coming along.

Expand full comment

Healing vibes Kareem! Thanks for all you write and share!

Expand full comment

I'm sending healing thoughts your way, Kareem. I hope you recover quickly and uneventfully. You are my favorite Substack writer, and I look forward to your return.

Expand full comment

So much hope you are hanging tough, Kareem. Sending love, light and strength from Montreal. Please permit me to recommend to your readers a book that you likely know of, or have read: "The Kaepernick Effect" by Dave Zirin. It is an account of young people--mainly in their own words--about why they decided to take a knee in support of Colin and the changes he continues to try to bring about. The courage of these young people (and in many cases, their coaches) is awe-inspiring, providing hope for us all. If you have not had the opportunity yet to read it, you might want to, as it might provide you with some much-needed strength on your path to recovery. The young men and young women in the book inspired me. As do you, Kareem. Many thanks for all you do. Best wishes.

Expand full comment

Get well soon!

Expand full comment

Get well soon big guy! Happy Holidays!

Expand full comment

Love the hospital bed picture from someone who made her headshot on Instagram from a similar location. Healing vibes to you!

Expand full comment

You got this, get back on your feet soon, and back to the writing...I look forward to reading your thoughts on the state of the state.

I bought a bottle, just cuz!...I mean, Skyhook wine?!!

https://www.jdbwines.com/skyhook-1

Expand full comment

Kareem, I find it a little odd that sending get well wishes is the occasion for my first ever message to you. We were students together at UCLA, by which I mean: we sometimes passed one another on campus; I attended virtually every home basketball game you played and have since regaled friends ad nauseam with the exploits of #33 and his team; I roomed with your successor at center, Steve Patterson, but never had the chutzpah to approach you. Since then, my admiration has endured but has eventually graduated from the confines of the court as you have used your platform and authentic voice to speak out with wisdom, compassion, and humanity. Please accept my appreciation, wishes for a successful recovery, and request that you keep writing!

Expand full comment

You are a national treasure, Mr. Abdul-Jabbar. Thank you for making me/us smarter every time you publish your newsletter! It’s unparalleled in its quality and scope. Feel better soon! Wishing you and your family a joyous, healthy, holiday season and 2024.

Expand full comment

I am so sorry to hear about your hip . It’s a miserable process to go through . I hope you have a good “nurse Ratchett” to take care of you and make you do those painful exercises .

Expand full comment

Get well soon

Expand full comment