What You Say?

Do you and any of your friends have those things called inside or personal jokes? You know the ones that only you and they understand? And when you say certain phrases or words and crack up hysterically, people around you look as if you are crazy and stupid? If you answered “YES” to any of these questions, then you would get along tremendously with us. Inside jokes are JMH’s specialty!


Play on words and JMH often go hand in hand. One set in particular that stands out in my mind…Matt always traveled with me to Eastern Illinois University at the end of each semester to help me turn in my books. Why? The books were heavy and I was a big baby and didn’t want to do it alone. Pretty simple huh?

Well, Matt and I were walking around campus discussing some of our great adventures I’m sure. It was during this time that Matt and I were talking about a weekend a few weeks past. I had told my parents that I was hanging out at Matt’s all night and had actually stopped by to see my girlfriend at the time. Now mind you, I did not lie totally, but I was not with Matt the ENTIRE time. Matt was teasing me about this.

“I’m going to tell your parents!” Matt began teasing.

“That’s blackmail Matt! I thought you were my friend.”

“Blackmail! Blackmail! Blackmail!” Matt began chanting and actually dancing around.

That’s when I heard someone clear his or her throat…Intentionally with volume. I turned to see one of the biggest African Americans on our Panther football team. His arms were crossed, eyebrows raised, and his lips were turned into a scowl.

“Just what do you have against BLACK MALES?” His voice boomed.

I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. I started to say something, but I could not seem to find the words. I turned to Matt for help.

Matt was gone…Up the quad and not looking back. I knew he was laughing.

I turned back to the man in front of me and shrugged my shoulders…Then took off as fast as I could after Matt.

Play on words…Yep…

JM