Mike's Malicious Mail: We can all get along (almost)

Suddenly, everyone loves Mike's Malicious Mail. It's an orgy of butt kissing and super snuggles.

My column that the Duke case showed us that stereotypes work both ways struck a chord. MMM received more e-mail than Santa does in December.

I remain convinced that many of us jumped to conclusions on the guilt of the Duke lacrosse players because we believed -– that they believed -– they were rich and white so they could do whatever they wanted to a poor black stripper.

We all bought into stereotypes about race and class. The case, along with the Rutgers one, showed just how far we have to go when it comes to race in America.

"Mr. Freeman, I am a longtime visitor to this site and have never posted or responded to anything. I read your articles from time to time and without fail never seem to see eye to eye to you. That being said I have to commend you for the most fair and balanced article in regards to race relations in this country I have read in some time. I am a 30-year-old white middle-class male. I am very concerned with what is going on with race relations in this country. I feel that although the outcry of what Don Imus said is more than justified, the constant mobilization led by the likes of Sharpton and Jackson are only giving more power and more ability to hurt by ignorance and words by the likes of Imus.

"There should be no shame in calling right from wrong, regardless of color. Whether it be the ignorant, insensitive remarks from a radio legend, or all the people that rushed to judgment and demanded and pressured until an indictment was reached in the Duke case. Thanks for this article. I am sharing it with everyone in my office."

Share away, big fella.

"Your article on the Duke lacrosse players ordeal was a classy mea culpa," stated a reader. "Your insight into both the media and so-called leaders of various communities was on target. I applaud you. Btw, this article deserves national play. I hope you get it."

Well, CBS SportsLine.com is the best national sports website in the world, pal. Duh.

"You are an excellent writer. I have read your articles for some time now, but your latest regarding the comparison between the Rutgers and Duke incidents is outstanding. If you never win a formal award for the article, it will be a travesty. Thank you for your contributions, and please continue your great work. – Nathan"

Can black people blush? By the way, speaking of formal awards, can MMM win an Emmy for that column? Then we'd be like Katie: a fellow Emmy Award winner.

"This is the first time in my 47-year life that I have responded to any type of candid editorial. I am the silent majority who sit on the sidelines. I just want to say thank you!"

You're welcome, you old goat.