While America still stands in the midst of a controversial war abroad, the country has started to feel the symptoms at home – civil unrest at plans to build a mosque near Ground Zero and threats of burning Qurans are just a few of the more recent examples.

There is much to be said for the great experience of a thing we call “college.” The incredible opportunities it has to offer, the interesting people poised for encounters, the barely recollected parties. It’s pretty grand, this college life.

We nod our heads and promise to be healthy and safe but on the inside, we laugh at the silliness of the advice the doctor is reciting to us off his little clipboard. Exiting the cold, sterile world of the doctor’s office and re-entering the world of stressful academics, fast food, fist bumps and keg stands is a sure way to wipe any memory of the advice that boring doctor gave you.

Remember the days when we were young and were forced to eat things we didn’t like? We’ve all been there, stubborn children refusing to do what our parents tell us because we think we know what’s best. I was four when my parents dressed me up for Halloween as a cute little clown. I cried because I thought I was ugly and I wanted so badly to be a fairy princess instead. My dad and I got as far as the edge of our front lawn before I had a meltdown and didn’t want to go any further. My friend tells a similar stubborn child story of when she was young and refused to eat what was on her plate. Week after week, my friend kept refusing to eat what her mother made for dinner, and eventually she won; her mother gave her what she wanted.

Fourth time’s the charm; “Those who do not learn from history…”; Authorized material only

TODAY: Open Bike Night: Halloween Edition