A Friday update of randomness

I figure it's time to move out of the foray of reminiscing and get some timely postings here.

"Why do you know things like that?!"

This was asked of me earlier this week, and for those of you who know me, it was not the first time. It was in response to my reply of "Acolyte" for a seven-letter word for a church candle lighter. And to be honest I have no idea why I know things like that. I just remember random junk I hear and collect them in my brain like your grandma collects empty margarine containers in the cupboard next to the sink (mostly useless and largely from the 80s. Sorry, grandma).

Filling out an application recently, I was asked to give three words that would describe me, that should one of my best friends hear them, would know exactly who was being described. One friend suggested: loyal, esoteric and another TBD (I chose "witty"). Not bad, flattering even, but would my friends know for sure it was me? After discussing this briefly with Doug and trading ideas we arrived at his ubiquitous nickname for me--Random Fact Guy. Sold. However, I should note I still have yet to hear from that company.

So what to do with a brain full of tidbits like buffalo can jump six feet, wheras elephants are the only animals that cannot jump? Well, recalling the lineup from the US World Cup teams in the mid-90s got me through a night of dinner and drinking with strangers in Argentina. Really I think that's what it's all about; being able to have a conversation with someone regardless of background or history. Because, frankly, I've never been one to excel at staring contests.

On the other hand, should the world succomb to nuclear armageddon (see here or here) and the world's history is lost, I'm sure I would be an invaluable resource. Hopefully the future won't mind that gaps in the annals of history are filled in with episodes from the Simpsons and Silver Surfer panels.