If you’re a “science type,” you’re probably quite excited by the upcoming rare planetary alignment: the transit of Venus.
My response: Big whoop.
But if you’re into this kind of thing, I say, go for it. A small black circle moving across a large orange circle is certainly more exciting than most of what comes out of people’s mouths these days (yes, I’m not afraid to say I’m referring to the vicar’s tediously detailed description of a trout fishing trip he managed to wedge into Sunday’s sermon). If you think this is going to be one of the most important events in scientific history, by all means, knock yourself out.
Experts are claiming that you need to purchase special filters to be able to properly see Venus do its thang, but I personally think that’s just a clever way to get you to drop more dosh. A quirky old friend of mine spent most of his youth looking directly into the sun, and it never did him any harm (the doctor said his vision loss was more likely due to his stabbing his eyes with a pencil, another one of his idiosyncratic habits). However, as my ophthalmology license was revoked a few years back, my advice may not be as wise as you assume it is.
Whether you’re staring up into the sky today or doing something worthwhile, I wish you the best of luck. As any writer knows, it’s readers who give our lives meaning. I cherish you all, especially the young man who recently pushed a note through my slot—I do hope you’ll consider stopping by again soon as you neglected to leave your phone number and I think I might be able to find a use for your services.
Have a good one!
Everyone Needs an Algonquin 
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