When he was mayor, Bob Lanier repeated it so often that a passel of politicians and pundits, business leaders and bureaucrats began emulating it, at times mimicking Lanier's whispery baritone. On the surface, the phrase appears blunt, that the teller is speaking exactitudes. When Lanier used it to describe his observations, the message was straight to the point. But it's a good phrase, especially for a politician, because it provides a back door.
New information can catalyze a new sense of things.
Though Lanier was term-limited from office in 1998, his sense of things continues to be solicited by power brokers and wannabes. Lanier is constantly on the horn, advising those tapping his sizable knowledge base. He chats with people dallying with the 2003 mayoral race, with those watching water, transportation and downtown development issues. Those who call Lanier from time to time include former President Clinton, Gov. Rick Perry and Enron Chairman Ken Lay. People call Lanier offering observations and gossip in return for advice.