When I was in college, I intended to take the Foreign Service exam and enter the diplomatic corps. As with many things when I was in college, I kept putting it off and never got around to it. But I have often wondered if I could have passed the exam, which is famously difficult. So last year, I signed up to take it.

Yesterday, I got an electronic postcard reminding me of the exam date. It features a photo of Colin Powell blathering on about something or other, with the caption, “This man wants you to remember a really important date. April 12, 2003. This is the date you are scheduled to take the Foreign Service Examination.” Colin and his henchmen go on to say:

There has never been a better time to pursue a career in the Foreign Service. We need your help to create a stronger, more diverse diplomatic corps and are eager for your project and people management talents, and your team-building and relationship skills. That's why we want to see you on April 12.

As a Foreign Service Officer, you will represent America around the world...

As tempting as it is to represent America around the world at a time when the cornerstone of its foreign policy is reviled everywhere (except the Solomon Islands, apparently), I am going to have to pass on this particular career opportunity. If I were to join the Foreign Service right now, it would only be to resign immediately in disgust, and that seems like a waste of time.

So my April 12 is free; who wants to play frisbee?