Time

Time is a strange thing. For some, it moves far faster than it should. For others, it just seems to drag on and on. And for a third group, it does exactly what it's supposed to do, and that's tell us how long it is before our pizza's done and we can get back from commercials.

And yet, for many, time is simply a measurement of the changes that we all go through. Take, for example, the recent guest of honor at an alumni parade in Andover, MA. After all, it isn't every day that you get to see a 107-year-old leading the parade. It's even less frequent when, on the date of his 90-year reunion, he also gets an indiscretion from the past wiped off the slate. Happily for him, the school no longer looks as poorly on his late night voyage to watch a fire with fellow classmates, which will allow him to hold his head high for his 95-year reunion.

Also, to illustrate the fluidity of time and how it marches to its own drum, look at the new concept in footwear for babies. Dubbed "Heelarious", they're just what they sound like; high heels for infants up to six months. But oh, before you plan on having your newborn walk the catwalk, take note. The Heelarious shoes are not made for walking, because the heel wouldn't be able to support the weight. And since we know so many 3-month-olds that are walking, we're confident that this is a major concern. But, well, why should these fashion designers hold onto the usual concepts of time, when it can be shaped so easily to their whim?

Of course, the last thing about time is that it's a marker. It's a signifier of what is to come, and what has come to pass. It is that final tolling of a bell, or that new bud of spring. Over the weekend, we learned of just one of those instances. While we may never have the reach, or the impact, or even the hairline, of anyone involved with "Meet the Press" we can give our respect, our sympathy, and our thoughts. Goodbye and thank you, Mr. Russert.