Hooray for the Graduate!

In about an hour, one of my online friends will graduate from college. I can't remember exactly how I first encountered Dariush. It may have been on Shane Nickerson's site or on Magazine Man's blog. But we started chatting back and forth. I think Dariush thought I was another young twentysomething from the way I yammer in chat. He was surprised to find out I was almost twice his age.

The conversation went something like this:

Merujo: So, what's up tonight?
D: Homework. And you?
Merujo: Nothing, dude. Just hangin' out. Gonna watch some TV.
D: Lucky you - no homework.
M: Well, I could have homework, if I felt like bringing something home from work.
D: Uhhh... you're not in college?
M: No! LOL
M: How old do you think I am?
D: 21, 22?
M: Dude - I'm 40.
D: ??? But you say "dude" all the time!

(It's true. I do.)

Dariush is a really great guy - and one of the first people to offer help (in the form of a website) when my eye problem - and ensuing financial problems - started. He's a talented journalist and photojournalist, pretty damn good - and incredibly positive - columnist, and a fine man. We've never met, but I imagine we will someday, and I'm gonna give this guy a big bear hug for just being who he is. Being the youngest kid in my family, I never had any little brothers or sisters. Knowing Dariush is like having a really cool and funny little bro.

I know his professional future is bright, and I hope that his life is filled with adventure and love. (And there should be a line of whip-smart, sexy young things lined up to meet him!)

Congratulations, D. Enjoy your day!

Your future is waiting for you.