Yesterday

I went to Columbia Day in DC to attend luncheon and some lectures with fellow Columbians. What was amusing was that I didn't expect that the vast majority of the attendees would be silver-haired and stooped. However, I have met some nice people and enjoyed talking to them.

The first lecture dealt with Homer and the Odyssey. Good memories of having to struggle through the Odyssey came back to me. I really have no inclination to read epic poetry. Maybe when I'm 60, I will acquire a taste for it.

The second lecture was by a foreign correspondent and Columbia alumnus. Good speaker. Talked about politics, Iran, Iraq, current relevant events. It was good to gain his perspective on things, because to be honest, I haven't done too much in-depth thinking of my own regarding our state of the affairs.

Then the final lecture was on Robert Moses and how he shaped the landscape of New York City. So much I don't know, so much to learn still.

I met two alumni, both class of '61. One of them asked me if I were single because he has a 30 yr old son he'd like to introduce to me. The other man asked to have dinner with me. Haha...if so, he would be the oldest guy I've "dated", since he must be pushing 70. Just kidding, I like elderly people actually. They usually have lots to teach and offer, but not everyone is willing to listen.

They also played a 15 minute inspirational (read: cheesy) video extolling the praises of Columbia. I watched it with a mixture of bemusement and grudging appreciation. I really did enjoy my four years at Columbia immensely and I think it has shaped me to be who I am now, for better or for worse. All the propandistic stuff about COlumbia being such an awesome institute and blah blah blah, well, I guess I'll take it with a grain of salt, but I don't want to be an ingrate. The truth is, Columbia is a pretty amazing place and I have met some truly important people in my life there as well. Sigh and let's face it, I might not have a chance to be an "Ivy Leaguer" anymore. But we should stay positive, shouldn't we? Who knows, maybe I'll do awesome in med school and then get a kickass residency at Columbia or Harvard or anywhere else. One can dream.

Last night I watched Ashton Kutcher's film "A lot like Love" It's a silly piece of work, but Ashton's always good to watch, because he's just such a cutie. I think my aunt enjoyed the film. But it's one of those mildly entertaining but immediately forgettable flicks.