So tomorrow is my golden birthday. 31 on the 31rst. And for whatever reason, here's what's on my mind.

The first day of college they assembled (herded) all us 17 and 18-year-olds into the gymnasium for a big dinner to start the school year. At the conclusion of the meal, the 1rst year's dean got up and gave a speech about how many people were in our class, our combined weight, what colleges people had rejected, etc. It was gimicky and fun and fine.

Here is what I wish she had said:

Dear Young People,

You need to realize that your body will never be this young again. Right now you can drink all you want and still function the next day. That is a super power. You should treat it as such. You have a ton of these powers that you should be using for good, bad, and really bad. You can jump into a pick-up game of soccer, without stretching, and walk to class the next day. Super Power. Stay up til 4am dancing but have to do work the next day? No Problemo. Super Power. Irresponsible experimentation? Super Power. So as you enter this esteemed collegiate setting, remember that it is your duty, nay, it is your obligation, to exploit the world with your youthful exuberance and bounce back ability. Live it the fuck up. Cause these power don't last forever.