Artie Bucco, my brother

Watching this past Sunday's episode of "The Sopranos'' gave me the willies. Not because Lauren Bacall got slugged but because of restaurant owner Artie Bucco's tableside manner. Here's a guy who doesn't realize he's an annoying kibitzer and makes people uncomfortable with his chatter.

I consider myself a gifted raconteur, who bedazzles folks far and wide. But believe me, I listen when Sue whispers in my ear, "Time to dial it back, love,'' because we don't always see ourselves as others see us and we need to trust those who love and can see us clearly.