As for Dirk, I am glad he won last year, because this year is looking pretty grim down 0-3 to the Thunder.

I can vividly remember Dirk’s moment as well. I have rooted for him (when he wasn’t playing the Suns) for quite a while. His work ethic and focus in the final moments are worthy of all the praises given to him. I wasn’t going through my transition time at that moment, but I can definitely relate to some sports-hero love. 

You particularly will get a kick out of this article: http://www.zacparsons.com/2010/04/my-new-favorite-maverick/

While I have been drawn to the scientific method in the last several years, I still have a strong affinity for the arts, for the precise reason that you mention above. It’s the connections that bind us together as human beings. 

In addition to Foxy, I’m really looking forward to a chance to see the band Fun. at some point in the near future. They have really provided a lot of inspiration for me to live and love well.

When are you writing an article on your musical mood shapers?

To me, what is profound about music (good music) is that it comes from such a personal place, so when we see those artists perform they are actually be very vulnerable and open as they entertain. You know that such great music must come from a real experience of joy or pain.

I know it sounds corny but I felt something very similar watching Dirk and the Mavericks win the NBA championship last year. I have been a fan of Dirk’s since he came into the league and respect the way he carries himself. His work ethic and humility in a world of prima donnas really impresses me. Watching him overcome all the labels of being a “soft European” who wasn’t on the tier of player who could take his team all the way was an awesome experience. I was literally seeing on live tv as a man reached out and took a hold of his lifelong dream. I felt this vicarious sense of accomplishment as he raced off the court in the closing seconds of the championship game so that he did not break down emotionally on camera.

As Dirk was finding the strength to be the best version of himself as a basketball player, I was going through something very similar as a person. Those shared goals, even if they occur in different ways for each of us, are the things that bind us together as human beings. I love it when those connections occur, and they are all around us if we just stop and try to recognize them.

…and you had a 6 figure job?!!