I enjoy Imus in the Morning.  I don't often get a chance to see it on MSNBC (Imus is not carried on Colorado Springs radio), but I certainly watch when I can.  I was in radio for about 20 years, including as host of entertainment-oriented morning radio shows, and his program is perfect for my tastes.

When and if Imus returns from suspension, I suspect he will continue to be contrite and apologetic.  He'll probably tone down the rhetoric on his show, and I'm guessing this change will be permanent.

What a shame.

In my dreams, this would be Imus' first comments upon his return:

"I've had some time to think about the firestorm that my stupid comments created.  I'll say it again: Stupid comments.

"I've decided that I'm a little pissed off.  It has occured to me that this isn't about a group of people being offended and victimized.  It's about a few people who can claim that they speak for people who have been offended and victimized.  It's also about some nice young ladies I insulted, and whether they will forgive me.  That's about it.

"I agree with the Reverends Sharpton and Jackson.  There's plenty of racism out there.  For example, there are racists who believe that blacks are inferior and helpless, and can only succeed with help from the government.  There are racists who actually profit - make a living - by keeping blacks angry at whites regardless of what whites say or do.  Those are the real racists in my book.

"What I said was stupid.  But I think I've apologized enough.  And to those people who have been screaming about my words, Reverends Sharpton and Jackson, perhaps we should take a look at some of the things you have said in the past.  You expected us to be tolerant and forgiving then, yet you refuse to extend me the same courtesy.  So you can take your hypocrisy and cram it.

"If my employers in radio and television think I've gone over the edge, again, then fire me.  I'll be able to spend more time with my family, and with the hundreds of children of all races who I help out at the Imus Ranch.

"To reiterate, cram it."

Ah, to dream...