February 14th: Thao Worra Day 2012!

Continuing our annual tradition since 2007: We're rapidly approaching February 14th, and some of you don't like the Romantic Candy-Card Industrial Complex. So, preparing for this, I once again present the annual reminders of your options for alternate February 14th occasions to observe.

You can always celebrate these anniversaries:
1929: The St Valentines Day Massacre in Chicago.
1950: USSR and China sign peace treaty.
1963: First successful kidney transplant.

February 14th is also the birthday of:
1766: Thomas Malthus, the misanthropic British philosopher.
1817: Frederick Douglass, African-American abolitionist.
1819: Christopher Sholes, American inventor of the typewriter.

Once again, if none of these strike your fancy, I hereby endorse the continued celebration of Thao Worra Day.

Much as in the spirit of Festivus, the festival for the rest of us, you too may engage in the following activities to mark Thao Worra Day in good spirits and much amusement:

• Send a nice note to someone you have just met or haven't talked to in a while.
• Declare yourself Emperor of the World (or Empress) and see if anyone notices. But you have to give back everyone's stuff by the end of the day. Or before the cops come.
• Treat yourself to a nice meal with someone you genuinely like, but in a completely non-romantic way. I totally approve.
• Make sure all your electronic equipment is fully recharged, that it may go well for you.
• Read a short poem out loud, even if no one is looking. No, it doesn't have to be one of mine.
• Leave two chairs for me and my guest at your desk or table. For we may come by. But don't hold it against us if we don't. We do have a busy schedule, you know.

Though Thao Worra Day is not for everyone, it is free for all to choose and participate in. If you do so choose to mark it, let me know how it goes!