I'd like to thank Professor Chomsky for the deep and lasting impact his work has had on my personal and political life, for close to a decade now. Like many here, I was introduced to his writings in university, and around the time I started to have my political awakening, I began to eagerly search out and read every single book or article written by Chomsky that I could find. His relentless dedication, accuracy, and above all moral clarity have inspired me in many ways over the years since. In addition, he somehow finds the time to respond to e-mail sent to him by hundreds of people every single day.

I know that the last thing he'd want is to be considered a celebrity, and indeed the most important lesson he teaches is to think for ourselves. This will be his real legacy I think. Still, reading the entries here, it's undeniable that Chomsky has had a profound effect on the thinking and awareness of countless people around the world, and for that he deserves special thanks and appreciation. So thank you Professor Chomsky, and Happy Birthday; here's to 80 more.