When I was living in Stamford CT, I was a volunteer at npower, a non profit whose mission was to launch digital careers for young adults from underserved communities. I would be a guest lecturer from time to time as well as mentoring some of the participants.

One of the people I worked with was Bleu, who inspired me as much as I hope I inspired him. I am not quite sure how, but the subject of the Canadian comedian Russell Peters came up, it seemed that Bleu and Russell were good friends. I did not know Russell other than from watching his comedy videos which are hilarious.

In March of 2015 Kimberly and I were on one of our annual pilgrimages to Australia. Before we got there, my son Christian told me that Russell was playing in Perth by chance when we would be there. “shall I get some tickets dad?” Of course I said absolutely.

The show was as expected, incredibly funny. A few days later Kimberly and I were in Melbourne sitting in the bar at our hotel one evening having a drink when I spotted Russell……I couldn’t help myself.

“Hi Russell! My name’s José. I am an Aussie living in the US and am here visiting my family, I saw your show in Perth a few days ago.” He asked me if I enjoyed it and If I had any feedback. I said; “of course, your content is extremely funny we had many laughs, perhaps ease up on the Jewish jokes mainly because most Australians don’t have that experience like we do in the US, and may not get them.” He nodded, he didn’t know.

Then I said I know one of your good friends, Bleu. He said “bullshit, how do you know him? I explained, he was skeptical, “let me text him and confirm….” he did, he smiled we had a drink shook hands and said farewell.. one miniscule wise guy (me) to a much bigger wise guy (Russell)

P.s. apologies for my gut in the photo. Holy moly I am so glad I got rid of that!! I’ll tell you how I did it (and how I still kept it off) in another blog another time.