I’m not tall, but I am a Black American man. I know very well what you wrote about here, Mr. Spivey; I’ve dealt with making white people feel safe around me for most of my 81 years (so far!). I learned how to be non-threatening around the time I reached puberty. Even in Philadelphia, it was better to seem “safe” than to risk not being perceived that way. It gets really tiresome sometimes. Thanks for sharing this with us.
Mr Spivey, I genuinely love the way you tell a story.
You have done something that I didn't think was needed but it was for me at least. You have made "Black History" into "our American History." Thank you.
What a terrific story. The basketball picture is quite wonderful especially the tall kid in the back. One of the players in the front row, #9, looks a lot like Steve Nash. You were fortunate to live where you did, have a grandmother who took you to church, have your intellect and a bit of shyness.
I so wish people didn't fear tall large black men. I had many friends who fit that category when I lived in the Bay Area. They were my friends, even my protectors when necessary. And some of the sweetest and kindest people I have ever known.
Thank you for sharing your story. Best to you, your son & family.❤️
Great memoir. If I had been as tall as you, I would've been an All-American, but alas I was only 5-3 ...
: ) I went to St. Bonaventure while Bob Lanier was there. Wow, big Bob who turned out to be a gentle giant was pretty fearsome when he arrived on campus during his freshman year. But you know the rest of the story.
I’m not tall, but I am a Black American man. I know very well what you wrote about here, Mr. Spivey; I’ve dealt with making white people feel safe around me for most of my 81 years (so far!). I learned how to be non-threatening around the time I reached puberty. Even in Philadelphia, it was better to seem “safe” than to risk not being perceived that way. It gets really tiresome sometimes. Thanks for sharing this with us.
Mr Spivey, I genuinely love the way you tell a story.
You have done something that I didn't think was needed but it was for me at least. You have made "Black History" into "our American History." Thank you.
What a terrific story. The basketball picture is quite wonderful especially the tall kid in the back. One of the players in the front row, #9, looks a lot like Steve Nash. You were fortunate to live where you did, have a grandmother who took you to church, have your intellect and a bit of shyness.
I so wish people didn't fear tall large black men. I had many friends who fit that category when I lived in the Bay Area. They were my friends, even my protectors when necessary. And some of the sweetest and kindest people I have ever known.
Thank you for sharing your story. Best to you, your son & family.❤️
Wonderful pictures William! My wife says "He's really good looking".
Great content, Mr. Spivey! So glad to have come across your work. Thank you!
Great memoir. If I had been as tall as you, I would've been an All-American, but alas I was only 5-3 ...
: ) I went to St. Bonaventure while Bob Lanier was there. Wow, big Bob who turned out to be a gentle giant was pretty fearsome when he arrived on campus during his freshman year. But you know the rest of the story.
It's very nice to meet you William Spivey!
I’m the short guy with the mutton chops!