I just got back from visiting my local comic book shop (Fallout Shelter in Highland Park; check them out on Facebook or Twitter) for Free Comic Book Day and it made me think about something I witnessed similarly at Rutgers' second annual Geek Week that took place recently. I saw at both events a community of like-minded people who usually rarely interact in person with one another. It's crucial, especially for geeks I think, to bond with each other and share their geekdom. Too often my kin let go of their passions because of bullying or just feeling alone. Events like these are important to the geek/nerd community and I must say, I thoroughly enjoy seeing parents bring their kids to Free Comic Book Day. I can't wait to see what the next generation of geeks create, inspired by their favorite heroes. I know I was always motivated and optimistic about the world from the wonderful views of the future from science fiction and inspired by the heroic natures of Spider-Man, the X-Men, and all the Jedi from Star Wars, just to name a few. I hope many of you went out and read a comic book today. I urge you to never let go of what you're passionate about because of someone else. Be proud of who you are and let your geek flag fly! You're not as alone as you think.

Live long and prosper, my friends.