Emoti-WHAT

I can't believe I missed the contest! There are few things I enjoy about my job and the only thing that really keeps me going is Yahoo Messenger. I used to be an emoticon hater, but Yahoo has won me over with their innovative and creative cartoon faces.

I feel every company should strive to satisfy its customer base, so back in 2005 I attempted to send an emoticon suggestion to Yahoo. While e-mails to yahoo@yahoo.com and emoticon@yahoo.com both bounced back to me, I still believe in the words I wrote then:

To Whom It May Concern,

I was wondering if it would be possible to create an emoticon that emulates a "thug." I'm picturing a happy face, perhaps slapping its chest and then opening up its arms (sort of like a "what...step up..." attitude). As an avid user of Yahoo Messenger, I think it would be a great addition to your already extensive repertoire of emoticons. I use Messenger a lot at work and often wish I could insert an emoticon like the one I described, when dealing with difficult co-workers. While I do not condone physical threats, I feel vis-a-vie the world wide web it is more in jest. I expect no royalties or legalities associated with the patenting of said emoticon and I hereby grant you permission to do with said emoticon what you will without consulting me.

Sincerely, Your Pal Al

This stupid emoticon won the contest. When is this piece of shit ever going to come in handy during a conversation? Yahoo Messenger just went down a couple notches.