The Other Stewart's "Living"

If you don't watch the Daily Show, I suggest you start. TiVo it. Jon Stewart has developed into one of our most sensible commentators. He has a kind of South-Park-esque eye for the ridiculous, and a well spirited delivery.

He gave the commencement address this year at his alma mater, William & Mary. He manages to be funny and honest and encouraging without phoniness. It's just effing stellar. Snippet:

I am honored to be here and to receive this honorary doctorate. When I think back to the people that have been in this position before me from Benjamin Franklin to Queen Noor of Jordan, I can’t help but wonder what has happened to this place. Seriously, it saddens me. As a person, I am honored to get it; as an alumnus, I have to say I believe we can do better. And I believe we should. But it has always been a dream of mine to receive a doctorate and to know that today, without putting in any effort, I will. It’s incredibly gratifying. Thank you. That’s very nice of you, I appreciate it.

I’m sure my fellow doctoral graduates—who have spent so long toiling in academia, sinking into debt, sacrificing God knows how many years of what, in truth, is a piece of parchment that in truth has been so devalued by our instant gratification culture as to have been rendered meaningless—will join in congratulating me. Thank you.

But today isn’t about how my presence here devalues this fine institution.

Ha. Read the whole sweet thing.
HAT TIP: reader Sunil B.