I received an e-mail this morning from a friend of mine who I haven't heard from in a long time, congratulating on my defection from the US of A. And it is true that by moving to France I have made a small, personal statement about my sentiments against the lying liars (nod to Al Franken) of the current administration, the backwards motion of big business politics, a war that is unfolding exactly how I said it would when I was on the streets protesting in NYC last year, a population of idiots who have trouble making the link between their Super-sized meals and their obesity, and a plethora of other annoyances. I started off today basking in the expatriate life, shuddering at the thought of where I come from. But another e-mail from another friend put a quick end to my contempt and ushered in a wave of nostalgia. The message read:

"Subject: happy day

Dude, it's 4-20!

Yay!"

I have tried explaining the concept of 4-20 to foreigners before, but it is a lot like trying to explain an inside joke to someone on the outside. They may understand it, but they just don't get it. I guess you had to be there…

But, anyway, I am honored to come from a country where one day a year is consecrated to the herb of champions. And it makes me remember that for every lame-o there is in the US, there are 10 people who kick ass. Ok, maybe 7. But still…

I will be celebrating in France, although nothing can replace a wake'n'bake followed by breakfast at Dino's, or vaporizing and watching Dark Side of the Rainbow in my parents basement, or being mesmerized by the donuts as they wheeled around on the conveyor belt at the old Krispy Kreme on 8th Street (may it rest in peace). I hope you are all able to find the time for a little toke today or at least a minute to reflect on some beautiful memories we have all shared with the little weed. Nobody beats the Wiz!