I was at an event called “Define Your Pretty” in L.A. on June 27, 2011. There was a pink carpet which was a refreshing touch. While I was being interviewed by Necole Bitchie’s site, I noticed a woman laying on the floor face down, while the paparazzi snapped away.

When I asked her what she was doing, she explained PLANKING.

She encouraged me to do it. I had never heard of it before and I declined. I made a statement about working too hard to try to stay dignified. I also made a joke about why it wasn’t a good look for me. NO, I am NOT gonna lie face down on the filthy floor at a classy event even if the carpet is pink. Plus, I won’t lie, I REALLY thought in that instant “IF I am gonna plank, I’m gonna find my own unique clever “Kim Coles” way of doing it. I’ll have my own photos taken and I will control the images.” Yeah, I think fast, y’all!

I went home and Googled it. After seeing the world wide phenomenon, it kinda reminded me of telephone booth stuffing. Remember that? Truthfully, I did see some fun and funny plankers out there. And then I saw someone fall off of a refrigerator. And then I saw a baby on top of a microwave. And then someone called attention to the uncanny visual similarities to the manner in which Africans were transported in slave ships.

And then I heard that someone died.

SOOOO glad that I opted out. And then twitter exploded with the video and I was called bitch, fat and a hater by some folks who apparently were offended by my choice NOT to plank. Really? Wow. I looked at their profiles. I always do. They were young…very young. This broke my heart because the lack of respect of MY choice was glaring. I never once said that anyone else shouldn’t do it. I just know it is not for me.

Some fads are worth following, but before I lay down, I prefer to sit this one out.

Tell me, what do you think of PLANKING? Have you or will you do it? If so, tell me why. I would love to hear from you!

Love and Laughter,

Be Sociable, Share!

•