Chicken Wing Stew

One a day for all of May...

It would be criminal (subliminal) to dedicate May to the letter "C" without any regard for Chicken Wing Stew. Thus, not wanting to be criminal (the subliminal kind), I shall here make regard to aforementioned stew.

Chicken wing, chicken wing, chicken wing stew. First, note that this is not a soup. Soups are thin and...well....soupy. You can eat soups with a straw. But this is a stew. Thick, robust, hearty. One might prefer a fork and knife while enjoying this entree. Second, note the fact that it is Chicken WING stew. Not simply chicken stew. That is too bland, too cliche, too kosher. But I'm talking chicken wing. Hot. Spicy. Wingy.

I've been asked this many times, "What is your deal with chicken wing stew?" My response is what it has always been: "I don't know." This concept mysteriously imprinted itself on my mind years ago and I haven't been able to shake it. I write about it. I sing about it (often). It comes up in social situations when it shouldn't.

I believe St. Paul was experiencing something similar when he spoke of a "thorn in his flesh." This nameless, faceless "thorn" has troubled scholars for years....what is he actually talking about there? But while they are confused, I know. I know the kind of issues he was facing. It is that reoccurring phrase or concept or entree item that renders you helpless before its freight. It doesn't stop to ask questions or permission. It just comes out. Chicken wing stew. You like me. I like you.