Reverse Rubbernecking

Waze informed me it would be 12 minutes before I would get to and through the traffic jam. I noticed that the accident wasn't even on my side of the road. No lanes were closed and yet traffic ensued. How? Why?! Rubbernecking. According to Progressive auto-insurance,

Rubbernecking occurs when drivers take their eyes off the road to look at a distraction, such as an accident or arrest. The term originated in the late 1800s to describe the act of turning and stretching the neck to eavesdrop. Today, it's synonymous with the same motion but is now commonly associated with the action that takes place while driving—namely slowing down to see an event that happened to someone else. Rubbernecking is a form of distracted driving that can be as dangerous as texting or talking on the phone while driving. 

To me, rubbernecking isn't that much different than gossip. We are curious creatures. Who doesn't want the low down? We want to know, but, like gossip, we seldom feel better after engaging, or in this case, taking the long look. Still, this blog is not meant to be a rant on rubbernecking or to preach against the tyranny of talk. Instead, I would like to offer all sports fans a practice worth pursuing. In June 2019, I wrote "Practice Reverse Gossip." Now I would like to offer a similar post. You guessed it: reverse rubbernecking.

This morning at the gym, highlights of the Golden State Warriors win over the Boston Celtics decorated and dominated local and national sports news. From Warriors' Coach Steve Kerr getting booed (for not givingCeltics star, Jason Tatum much playing time in the Olympics) to the recent success of the Splash Buddies, (the Splash Brothers are no more) there was enough electric content to make this reel worth running every half hour.

I noticed that every time the game summary appeared on the TV, I couldn't look away. In no way was I gawking. I found myself watching again, and again and again. Hadn't I just seen these shots? I marveled at one player among the others: Stephen Curry. Steph not only led the Warriors with 27 points, 9 assists, and 7 rebounds he made it look effortless. And that is how it felt to take it all in....

I took my eyes off of my weights and kept them on the screen. I remained curious; I wanted to see more. As I did, I realized my brain slowed down. It felt as though it opened up in watching but one thing or in this case one athlete (see Flow channel). My friend Jimmy, a die hard Celtics fan admitted "much respect for Steph. One of my all time favorites to watch." I wasn't the only one to feel this way. 

What's the lesson to learn? Watch! Enjoy the long look. Give your brain a positive pause. Let it soak something in. Rather than taking your eyes off the road and turning your head, reverse the rubberneck. Keep your focus on what's seeking your attention.

Obviously this analogy can only go so far. It falls short because the fact of the matter is if you are driving a car, you're not free to just pull over and gaze. You have some place to be. And yet, I think there's a need to name this playful  idea.

Reverse rubbernecking— came about as I stood near the start line of the WCAL III cross country race. Though I have not coached XC since 2015, I make a point of attending what is final league meet of the season every year. It takes place at a true cross country course—Crystal Springs. The 3.1 mile trek is situated in a space replete with rolling hills, very few trees and a designated path. One my think it's open space, but its primary function is for the sport of cross country, and in particular to showcase a race like this one. Once I got there, I knew I was in a place where I would see something special. 

At WCAL I in early October, I caught sight of a fantastic runner—one who makes a case for reverse rubbernecking. I didn't know anything about this senior, but I heard a buzz from the crowd when the varsity boys race convened. In a few minutes time, I realized why. The winner Miles Cook from Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep took the lead very early on and at no point in time was it close to compromised. As he emerged through the tunnel and onto the Polo Fields, the crowd started cheering as he completed this final 400 m to the finish line. He came through running fast and looking strong. Exhaustion? pain? agony? not on his face. He too made it look effortless. To watch him run was a thing of beauty. It's something for every sports fan to savor. Though that is not the reason I went to WCAL III, once I was there, I was excited for what I was in for. Cook did not disappoint.

Take these images to heart. When you see sport at its best: watch! Don't look away. Give your brain a break and let it behold what is unfolding before your eyes.

I wonder if I commit to reverse rubbernecking—will I find more to enjoy? Will I encounter more sport to savor? I'm happy to focus in on Steph this season as a social experiment. Stay tuned.

Photo Credits
Rubbernecking
Coach Kerr
Miles Cook
Highlights: Photo and reel is here

God's Favorite Basketball Player: Stephen Curry

Wardell Stephen Curry, Jr. has been a professional basketball player since 2012. After he appeared on the cover of Golf Digest for the second time, I thought to myself, Steph is the most interesting man in the world. He is four-time NBA champion AND he makes headlines in the game of golf. In the Summer of 2023, he caught attention in golf because he not only hit an ace on hole seven, he actually won the American Century Golf Championship at Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe with a walk-off eagle. The June 2024 issue of the Golf Digest magazine promoted Steph's Underrated Tour and his "potential to make golf more closely resemble the makeup of our society." 

Stephen Curry is many things—a father of four, devoted husband, ten-time NBA All-Star, and now an Olympic Gold medalist. He a philanthropist a media super star and a local hero.and... he's "God's favorite basketball player," too. We could spend a lot of time discussing why that title is well deserved, but I'd like to share why God made a good choice.

Stephen Colbert, a Catholic Christian host of his own late night show caught up with Steph on his recent visit to New York. Curry was in town for the release of his book and his annual Underrated Gold Curry Cup tournament for underprivileged and underrepresented junior golfers. He also made his way to Wall Street where he rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange. I wouldn't be surprised if the Dow reached an all time high that day.

Colbert's enthusiasm and excitement to host the two time MVP was effusive. Although it had been ten years since Steph was last on the show, Colbert made it quite clear he was a welcome and worthy guest. 

After getting a glimpse of the gold medal and recalling his performance in the semi-finals against Serbia and the finals against France—yes, the audience chanted "USA! USA!?"...I joined in—Colbert changed the topic. He said, "your Instagram bio says Philippians 4:13. I'm curious to know what that verse is— from the Letters of Saint Paul—and what it means to you."

I'll let Steph speak for himself. I urge you to watch the video here.

Loyal fans will have seen that passage listed on Curry's X profile and Instagram bio. He writes the first half of the verse: I can do all things on every pair of Under Armour shoes. To hear him explain why—he said, "that's my source of strength, determination and purpose and for me I get that strength through Christ" is quite powerful.

This personal ritual began after his mom, Sonya Curry offered him words of encouragement, via text before his first practice at Davidson. He said, "Her favorite verse is Roman 8:28. She said I needed to pick a verse that he could go to in times of need or inspiration."  In the same way that countless fans now know what "I can do all things" speaks to, I looked up what Romans 8:28 reveals: "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose." Known for her Fierce Love, this passage is as beautiful as Sonya is. 

This interview balances what is personal, playful and powerful so well. For example, Colbert raises a question that many people ask but seldom answer. He says "I know many times athletes with a deep faith  give their victories up to God. Do you think God picks winners and games?" All parlays aside, Steph responds by sharing a laugh, a joke and the admission, "If I can lead you to Him through shooting hoops, that's what it's about." Amen.

If God plays favorites among basketball players, God made a great choice with Steph. Why? We are told creation is a reflection of the Creator. In Steph, I see graciousness, dedication, loyalty and promise. He is a great teammate on and off the court. He has been broken and been rebuilt. He brings joy and gives joy. His foundation, "Eat. Learn. Play.—which has raised more than $52 million for meals, books, schools and playgrounds in the Oakland area" is a wonderful charitable organization. It's hard not to be led to God through his life, story and example. 

I still hold in my heart the moment when he broke down in tears upon winning the 2022 NBA Championship. He is human and in his own way, he is holy. How? Because Steph is unapologetically himself. He is "Fearfully, wonderfully made." Perhaps that's a passage that I'll keep and hold onto: Psalm 139.

I encourage you to read Stephen Curry wants to make golf blacker and browner, and raise his game, by Max Adler. It might just speak to the words of the Prophet Jeremiah. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Stay tuned.

Photo Credits
Golf Digest
God's Favorite
Shoes

Steph and SmartLess: Endlessly Fascinating

Always eager for a new show or bio-pic, I decided to take on Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich. I thought I should know the back story. This mini-series released on Netflix in 2020, offered testimonies from survivors—revealing the manipulation, abuse and emotional scars suffered at the hands of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. The stories expose a sex trafficking ring of powerful enablers leading up to his 2019 arrest. I started to watch the first episode: Hunting Grounds and I felt supremely uncomfortable.  The longer I watched the sadder and angrier I felt. I asked myself how much more I could stomach. And then I asked: Should I?  It's important not to be naive; I believe it's good to know how and why evil works, but I couldn't bare to spend three hours and 47 minutes focusing on the anti-hero. And I wasn't able to change my mind.

They say "we are what we eat." Fruits, vegetables, a diet high in fiber and rich in nutrients are good for our comprehensive health and well-being. Our intake of media just isn't that different. While some might find it hard to turn away from Epstein's story—in the sense it's just so bad it's good...even though it's not good. I said "enough." I wasn't going to waste my time. I haven't looked back.

If there were any doubt about this decision however, here's a counterpoint: The podcast Smartless featuring Stephen Curry. Shared with me on Thanksgiving Day by my dear friend Jimmy—a long time Celtics fan, recent Nuggets fan and certifiable Steph fan, I have listened to it three times. Not once, not twice...yes, thrice. It's that good

For those not familiar with its format, "SmartLess," hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, it "is a podcast that connects and unites people from all walks of life to learn about shared experiences through thoughtful dialogue and organic hilarity. A nice surprise: in each episode of SmartLess, one of the hosts reveals his mystery guest to the other two. What ensues is a genuinely improvised and authentic conversation filled with laughter and newfound knowledge to feed the SmartLess mind." Securing Stephen Curry was a big get. The session description said, "It’s all-net this week: sleep secrets, tall guys, and maybe even a BLT on white bread. You need not worry… we’ve got Stephen Curry." Indeed: Nothing But Net.

I found myself eager to talk to anyone I could about the show and about Steph. The two words I used to describe him are: endlessly fascinating—in the best way possible. 

The into says it all: He is equally successful in personal accomplishments as he is in teamwork. He is as rich as he is philanthropic. He is as famous as he is soft-spoken. This man was the first to have been voted MVP unanimously in NBA history. He has nine NBA All-Star selections. He had four NBA championships. He is the first player to hit 100 3-pointers in the NBA finals. He is widely regarded as the best shooter in NBA history and he's not a bad golfer, either. Wardell Stephen Curry

What a life! If it's not plays to a +2 in golf, it's winning the American Century Classic Celebrity Tourney in Tahoe on the same day he had a hole in one. Who does that??!  When asked if there's a sport he is not good at, Steph admits, "maybe lacrosse. I picked up a stick once." His tennis game however is solid. Pickle ball? He's even stronger. He believes he is playing better basketball now, at the age of 35, than he ever has. Listening to his stories, learning more about his family, career and approach to athletics is supremely up lifting. He laughs a lot—at himself and with others. No wonder he led the Dubs' Silly Fines Kitty.

Stephen Curry should be the subject of a podcast. He has a healthy perspective about his upbringing, is honest about the demands of his career and that he gets the best sleep on the road. Thanks to Steph, I found an appreciation for the NBA in-season tournament that started this year. He loves it—I had no idea! While I regret looking up the worst fight he ever got into (shown on YouTube....it's just so much better to leave it to your imagination), I appreciate the swing thought/what he seeks to maintain for the perfect shot...in basketball and in golf: balance!

I could go on and on and on...and I'd be happy to do that in a conversation with you, but I'll let Stephen, Jason, Sean and Will do that instead. Give this a listen. You'll be uplifted. Your cortisol levels will decrease, your serotonin and dopamine levels will rise and if you're like me, you might begin to wonder and imagine how you too, can be endlessly fascinating.. in the best way possible.

Photo Credits
SmartLess
Steph
Golf

Fierce Love: A Memoir of Family, Faith and Purpose by Sonya Curry

Behind the two-time MVP, all-time three point leader and four-time NBA Champion Stephen Curry is a force to be reckoned with: his mom, Sonya. Basketball fans have seen Sonya Curry at many of her sons' games in the stands—clapping and shouting, hugging and crying. What they might not know about this beautiful mother, grandmother, daughter and teacher is that she too is a great athlete (played D1 volleyball at Virginia Tech), devout Christian, and an author. And, she might be someone worth turning to if you're looking for spiritual growth.

In his weekly email, one of my favorite Catholic writers Matthew Kelly wrote, "Prioritizing the right things can be a hard thing to do! So many aspects of life try to break us up into little bits, so it is critically important that we look at ourselves as a whole person on a daily basis. My challenge for you is to take an extra minute today to think about what you should prioritize. When is the last time you REALLY decided to make spiritual growth the #1 priority in your life? What do you have to lose? "

Do you agree? Is it difficult for you to prioritize the "right things?" How often do you think about what you should prioritize? Great questions. However, I would argue that athletes and coaches face these questions on a routine basis. The nature of "the game" or our game/sport demand no less. And yet for all parties, Where does spiritual growth land on your list of priorities. Is it not too valuable to leave at just another item to check off? Indeed that nature of that game is anything but ever complete.

Perhaps part of the challenge of making spiritual growth a priority, let alone the primary one, is that there's no one path....or maybe there are too many paths toward progress. I will speak for myself—I need a road map or recommendation. I do well with the basics—benchmarks, even bylaws. Fortunately, I found one in reading Sonya Curry's book: Fierce Love: A Memoir of Family, Faith and Purpose.

Watch the GMA interview here

My sense is that Sonya Curry intended to share her story. A path toward spiritual growth is most likely an byproduct of the book! But, I believe God is always working with us and through us. We, her readers, have a way. An example to use. A person to look to. A woman for whom many will compare and contrast. I can only encourage you to check it out for yourself and enjoy.  I did.

In case you're like me and in need for a few examples, consider the following.

• When her children were young, they woke up at six in the morning for family devotion. This includes "reading a passage from the Bible, a new chapter each day." She writes: 
• Of course, many mornings I realize that much of the time, they are all half asleep and want to be anywhere but here. Still, they do it. Not that they have a choice, but they do it. I stay focused, locked in. I am in playoff mode, wearing my game face. I truly believe that this ritual will have a long-lasting, maybe even a lifelong impact on my kids. I am completely committed to starting the day this way.
  
  
• Once a week, the Currys host a family meeting. This was on Sundays, usually before they went back to church for the six o'clock evening service (they also went to a ten or eleven o'clock morning service as well as a Wednesday evening service. Sonya speaks authentically and powerfully of its importance.
• In the same way, I have started parenting partly by relying on ritual and tradition. First and foremost, I believe that when you have children, you should take them to church. Teach them about God. It’s what you do. How I was brought up. But with my kids, I actually feel something deeper. I feel as if I am being drawn back to my roots. I don’t believe that it’s simply what I should do. I feel that God—going to church—is something more. It’s a pull. I want to go. It’s not just tradition. I want to make churchgoing an active focus of our lives. I want to establish going to church as part of our family’s routine.
  
  It’s beyond important. It’s a value I feel in my core. It’s how I want to raise my children. And so, every Sunday, I gather up Stephen and Seth, and we go. Sitting in church, flanked by my two boys, I feel the power and comfort of routine. I repeat the same action until it becomes habit.
  
  We rely on our rituals. I believe that. Then, after a short time, something subtle begins to happen. The ritual goes beyond a rote activity. I start to look forward to going. Sitting at the same spot every week. Greeting the same people. Reading and sharing the same prayers. Listening to the pastor’s sermon. All this has its own power. Soon I realize that this routine has become my survival. Going to church on Sunday offers a kind of sanity, a safe haven from the week. Something I can count on. A refuge. The routine becomes its own reward.
  
  In church, I look at Stephen and Seth, so young, so impressionable, and at this age, so squirmy. I smile at them and they smile back not knowing that I am training them, engulfing them in a sweet dose of spirituality that will last their lifetimes. At least I pray that it will. As I remember Proverbs 22: 6, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
  
  
• Sonya committed to not drinking alcohol while the children were still at home. Sonya writes, "I’m abstaining from alcohol now, but the day I drop her off at her dorm, I am coming home and pouring myself a huge glass of wine." I never thought that maybe kids should be concerned that their parents are having parties when THEY are not home. #ParentsCanRageToo
  
  
  
  
  
• Sonya knows Scripture well, so well that I am not sure a single chapter is written without one passage or one reference that has meaning and relevance to her. I would love to ask her children about the prayer slips she left under their bed and in their rooms.
  
  
• I pray with my feet. Sonya does too. She writes, 
• I walk through our house at night. Sometimes I stop abruptly, drop to my knees, and pray. And sometimes I slow my walk so that I’m barely walking at all, and I talk to God. I talk to Him as I would a close and trusted friend.
  
  
• I would be remiss if I didn't cite the powerful, honest and brave testimony that Sonya provided about the fact that Stephen Curry was even born. She shares going to Planned Parenthood with Dell and her decision not to go through another abortion. It is worth reading for yourself. As we know, the story doesn't end there. Steph's birth story brought me to tears—both happy tears and some funny ones (she thought he looked like E.T.).
  
  
  
  
  
• Sonya Curry née Adams, grew up in Radford, VA—a member of the town's "first family of sports." She said "when I am eleven or twelve, my family—aunts, cousins and a few close friends—form an all-female sports team. It's no wonder she extends the analogy of sports to parenting. 
  
• Maybe the idea of sports has become ingrained too deeply within my heart and soul, but before I get out of bed, I put on a game face. I prepare to bring it. To be a parent—in my opinion, to parent well—you have to bring your “A” game. Parenting is strenuous. Draining. Exhausting mentally and physically.I find it similar to playing a sport at a high level.
  
  I approach parenting the same way I did when I played volleyball in college and the same way I see Dell approaching professional basketball. You always have to think next play. It’s a term that athletes use. You’ve got to have a short memory. In the flow of a basketball game, you’ll inevitably make a bad play—you’ll miss a shot, throw an errant pass, turn the ball over, commit a dumb foul. You will make a mistake. It happens. Part of the game. You cannot dwell on that mistake. You have to correct in the moment, adjust on the fly, change your attitude and your mindset instantaneously. In basketball and in parenting, things happen. Surprises. The unexpected. And those moments that don’t turn out the way you planned or hoped for or even envisioned—those mistakes—influence other human beings. Your teammates.

Preach, Sister Sonya. Preach.

Although her path toward spiritual growth is different than mine, I was nothing short of inspired and intrigued by this woman. I am not a parent, but I admire she "had the courage to parent" and believe she offers grounded and impressive examples of how she did that and the effects—good and bad that came with it. I will admit, I concluded this book by believing Steph Curry IS as special, loving and charismatic as he appears to be. That's not just his doing—his parents and their commitment to their Christian faith are part of the equation. I read "Fierce Love" because I'm a fan of her son, but now I can't help but cheer for her and the success of this chapter of her life. Thank you, Sonya. I hope to meet you someday, soon.

Photo Credits
Book Cover
Interview on GMA
Sonya and Steph
Warriors
Young Kids

Steph Curry: Underrated—Reflection and Discussion Guide

How do you describe Stephen Curry? Four-time NBA Champion? Two-time MVP? The all-time three point leader. Greatest shooter in the game? Do you quote what his Twitter handle states: Believer. Husband 2@ayeshacurry, father to Riley, Ryan and Canon, son, brother. Warriors guard. Davidson Wildcat. BAYC. Philippians 4:13 #ChangeTheGameForGood?!

While my friend Alan believes Steph leads the league in (understated) swagger, I think there's only one way to describe the man: clutch. With this eagle putt at the American Century Classic, just one day after his hole-in-one (his second of all time), he had sports fans all over the country thinking exactly what he, Wardell Stephen Curry II, thought long ago. He's different. 

Such is the primary claim that Curry makes in the Apple TV documentary, Underrated. The two hour film details "how a little-known high school prospect from North Carolina became a generational superstar," but also offers us a whole lot to think about in sports and in spirituality.

I have created the following discussion guide, in tandem with the article From Underrated to Undeniable: How Stephen Curry Went From 3-Star Prospect to All-time 3-Point Leader. I hope this thematic focus will only add to your enjoyment and appreciation of Steph Curry and his story. I will be using it this Fall! Open to amendments and suggestions.

According to the NBA.com “the trailer for Curry's documentary broke his career into five subcategories; unknown, undersized, underestimated, unstoppable and undeniable. He overcame obstacles every step of the way”. I have blended their information, notes from watching the documentary and questions grounded in Sports and Spirituality for this discussion guide. 

UNKNOWN
Stephen Curry was only a three-star prospect in high school, ranked as the 16th-best player in North Carolina, 60th best point guard in the nation and the 300th best player overall in the Class of 2006. Curry didn't receive any offers from the major conference schools and was only offered a walk-on at his parent's Alma-Mater Virginia Tech. Getting offers from Davidson, Winthrop and Virginia Commonwealth, Curry settled on Davidson.

• As you watch the program, consider what advantages or opportunities were afforded to Steph given that he was “unknown.”
  
  
• To what degree could being “unknown” serve as an advantage?
  
  
• What are the gifts and graces of being “unknown?”
  
  
  

UNDERSIZED
At 6'2 headed into college and 6'3 in the NBA, talent evaluators were wary of Curry's smaller frame. Some scouts viewed him as too small to play the shooting guard position and didn't think point guard was his natural position. In addition, top scorers on championship teams are traditionally much taller than Curry, and some questioned if a player at his size could break that mold.

• At a certain age, Steph comes to the realization that he wasn’t going to grow much taller. He admitted “It never killed my love for the game. It was a very difficult time. I had to learn how to embrace the challenge of it.” What are some your self-realizations? How did you respond? Who did you turn to for support? 
  
  
• While athletes can improve their speed, strength, stature—physical height is fixed. In what ways does Steph work with this limitation? Around it?
  
  
• It’s human to think about what we do not have and focus on our limitations, wishing something might change. How often to you take inventory of the gifts you have? When and how do you do that? Do you give thanks for those inherent talents and abilities?
  
  
  

UNDERESTIMATED
Since he entered the league in 2009, Stephen Curry has been the shortest player to win an NBA Championship as the team’s leading scorer. In that span, Curry is one of three players 6’3 or shorter to win a regular season MVP (joining Derrick Rose in 2011 and Russell Westbrook in 2017) and the only player to win multiple MVPs. In 2022, Curry became one of six players in NBA history to win a Finals MVP at 6’3 or shorter (Jerry West, Joe Dumars, Isiah Thomas, Chauncey Billups, Tony Parker).

• Coaches, analysts and other players had reasons for underestimating Steph Curry. His mother, Sonya Curry said “What I liked about Coach McKillop was that it wasn’t about proving other people wrong as it was about proving himself RIGHT.” Underestimating an athlete, a coach, a student, artist, musician is not uncommon. 
  
  
• When it a time you underestimated someone? What lessons did you learn?
  
  
• Do you tend to underestimate others? How hard is it for you to admit if you’re wrong?
  
  
  

UNSTOPPABLE
In the 2009 NBA Draft, the Minnesota Timberwolves had two opportunities to select Curry before the Warriors picked seventh overall. With the fifth and sixth picks, the Timberwolves selected two point guards, Ricky Rubio and Johnny Flynn, instead. Curry has gone on to be an NBA All-Star nine times, while Rubio and Flynn never had such an honor.

Throughout his championship runs, many pundits still underestimated Curry's ability to lead a title team. In 2015, some claimed that the title was tainted due to injuries to key players on the Cavaliers. And in 2017 and 2018, it was Durant who received the NBA Finals MVP Award.

In 2022, the Warriors again won the title – their fourth in eight years – and Curry captured his first Finals MVP, averaging 31.2 points, 6.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists in the Dubs’ six-game series victory over the Celtics.

• Time and again, Steph executes. He has made the basket on the free throw line and drained the three. This summer he sank the putt for the W at a golf tournament.
• Can one take steps to become “clutch?” 
• Do you think there is a discipline to this process?
  
  
• How do you eliminate distraction?!
  
  
• How do you become unstoppable?

UNDENIABLE
With 3,390 regular season 3-pointers and 618 playoff splashes, Stephen Curry has cemented himself statistically as the top shooter in NBA history. Curry is a member of the NBA's 75th-anniversary team, having been named to nine All-Star and nine All-NBA teams. He has won four championships, two MVPs, two scoring titles, a Finals MVP, a Western Conference Finals MVP and an All-Star Game MVP – he has achieved nearly every accolade possible in the sport.

• Underrated chronicles the effort it takes for Steph to earn his college degree. Do you think accomplishing goals—being undeniable—in one area of life leads to other areas, as well?

PRAYER AND FAITH
Many people recognize that Steph is a “man of God.” I would like to know in what ways Steph’s Christian faith grounds him. Though he does not explicitly mention prayer, early in the program he notes “I'm constantly trying to find the space just to be able to to survey my life, survey what's going onto let my mind think about, How did I get here

• What if we were to think about prayer as that space? That place where we can survey our own lives… That time to hit pause to consider how we have gotten to where we are… And where we want to be?! Does that resonate with your understanding of prayer?
  
  
  

COACH McKILLOP

• In addition to his parents, it’s obvious that Coach McKillop is a seminal figure in Steph’s life. His presence, persona and coaching style are worth analysis. What impresses or strikes you about their relationship?
  
  
• Coach McKillop conceded that one reason he decided to recruit Stephen Curry is because “He showed a real emotional toughness that is so rare…” What does emotional toughness mean? What does it look like to you?
  
  
• When Steph accepted the offer from Davidson, his mom said, "Don’t worry coach, we’ll fatten him up.”
  Coach McKillop turned around any said, “Don’t worry about that. We’ll take him as he is.”
  Steph said, “That gave me so much confidence in terms of what I bring to the table.” What feeds your confidence?

FEARFULLY and WONDERFULLY MADE

• Steph’s journey is rooted in a longtime understanding that he’s different. He said, “That’s when I realized, I’m different. And the temptation for me at that time was the focus on what I could not do. But I knew I could shoot. That is what I could bring to the team.”
  
  
• Time and again, Steph Curry cites his own realization that he is different. As he shares this understanding, it’s clear that being different is not pejorative. It it not something to be ashamed or that ought to change. Rather, it speaks of self-acceptance. How can we help others do see being different as a gift and a step toward self-empowerment?
  

DISCUSSION GUIDE is here

Photo Credits
Dubs

Three Reasons to Get Behind Golden State: Go Warriors!

Bay Area sports fans are donning royal blue and bright yellow today as the Golden State Warriors take on the Boston Celtics in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. Whether or not you follow the Dubs, regardless of any affiliation you may or may not have to the Boston Garden, I would like to offer three reasons you should consider paying attention, leaning in, checking out and cheering for the Western Conference Champions: GSW

Joy
There's a singular quality about the Warriors which draws people in. It's a core value of the head coach, Steve Kerr. It's palpable. It's infectious and it's real: joy.

If you have watched any of the past five games, not to mention the playoff games leading up to the finals, you know how intense it has been on the hardwood. The players are fiercely competitive and incredibly physical. Tempers flare, temperatures rise. Officials are necessary to keep things cool but too often, they fan the flames. In spite of it all, media and sports talk radio continues to report on the joy the Warriors bring—to one another and to their fans.

It must be liberating to have joy on your side. But what does this mean and how do we know if we have it? According to Kerr, "joy means losing oneself in the game and letting it take you away." 

Andre Igoudala added "We play a game and it is a job, but when you're having fun—there is no other feeling like that. You're not afraid. You're not worried about missing a shot or what could go wrong. There are no negative thoughts." 

As a fan, I see joy as a byproduct of balance. To me, the Warriors have the perfect mix of set plays and improvisation. The players take shots we expect them to make and others we never saw coming. What happens in between? There's the joy...and pain!

The joyful dance on the hardwood unfolds with a certain freedom because every player knows his role on the team. There is trust among the athletes to take on their role and a healthy respect for the role of others.

As one Warrior said, "There is a spirit that is infectious out there on the court. Taking pride and excitement in each others' successes, not just your own. That's what makes our team go...playing with joy. When you combine all those ingredients, it's brings out the best in all of us."

Sounds like a great description of joy to me. Thank you Dubs!

From Agitator to Animator
Draymond Green makes a name for himself year round, but the playoffs seem to trigger him from animator to agitator. 

As the animator, his competitive spirit drives the team. It's a controlled fire, a passion that gives life late in the third quarter or when the team trails by ten. This is Green at his best!

Its shadow side prods and provides. An agitator gets under the skin of the opponent and that's on them to react and respond. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but at its worst, agitation leads to distraction and breeds contempt. The negativity debilitates the agitator, causes conflict and can quickly get out of control. 

ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins has been critical of Green. When asked what advice he had for #23 he said 

Draymond, it is time for you to lose yourself in the team.  Be that emotional leader. Be the heart and soul of the team (read: animator). We know that Steph is the best player on the team, but when it comes to leadership it's about Draymond. Other guys are watching you: Andrew Wiggins, Jordan Poole, these younger guys are watching you. 

If he's not having a good game, he still needs to be an extension of Steve Kerr and the coaching staff. They need him to  make sure he leads those other guys to do their part. 

Draymond, don't let those emotions get in the way of leading the young core of players on this team!

Coach Kerr who loves and respects Draymond for who he is ought to give him one simple reminder: animate, don't agitate. 

Courage and Life
I miss seeing both of Steph Curry's parents sitting together in the stands. Having Sonya and Dell Curry on the "sidelines" personalized the professional game. They are still there, both in spirit and sitting separately.

Since their divorce, the mother of the future Hall of Famer shared her own life lessons. One in particular is quite poignant. Cerith Gardiner of Aleteia writes

34 years ago, Curry’s mom, Sonya, nearly came close to aborting her son. In her book, Fierce Love: A Memoir of Family, Faith, and Purpose, the mom of three explained that having already had an abortion while in high school, she found herself pregnant again. 

As she was about to enter a Planned Parenthood clinic, she felt the Holy Spirit intervene, according to a report in Daily Citizen:

“God had a plan for that child. There could be no Stephen. If I would have gone through that there would have been no Wardell Stephen Curry II.”

It could also be said that God certainly had a plan for Sonya, too. Through her own experience, the basketball star’s mom has now been able to share her story with so many others, and maybe inspire them, too, in difficult life decisions. 

As she shared with People, “I wrote Fierce Love to share my story, my testimony, and my experience so that others may find strength and purpose in their own journeys. I want to encourage others to pray continuously, live intentionally, love fiercely, and laugh daily.”

And thanks to her decision to follow God’s path, Sonya has blessed the basketball world with a true sporting hero, and taught him the fundamentals in life. As Curry shared: “From the beginning, my mom has been a rock of encouragement, faith, discipline, and gratitude for me and my siblings.”

I think it takes a lot of courage to share this story, as it does to take on an unwanted pregnancy. 

We will be hearing a lot about that reality as the Dobbs decision comes down in the weeks to come. I want restrictions on guns and I want them on abortion. You might find that overly simplistic, but I do believe we can and should protect the rights of the unborn. I also think we need to do a great deal more to help women—whether is Sonya Curry or someone who could never share her story. I keep reminding myself of the words of Mr. Rogers, Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping. Let us help one another to live in a place where abortion need never even be a choice a woman might have to make.

Before Tip Off Remember
Joy, Animation, Courage and Life.....not a bad cocktail to hold in our hand. I can certainly raise a glass to that...and I plan to. Go Warriors!!

Photo Credits
Draymond and Steph
Steph and Sonya
Draymond Fire
Steph and Dell

What I've Learned from Pro-Athletes and My Pastor....

Although you can place a bet on who will win the tourney, most patrons—including yours truly—anticipate the American Century Golf Classic for the remarkable setting, the 17th hole antics, the list of celebrities and the chance to interact with them. Indeed, the four-day event is a sports fan's paradise. One can get up close and personal with former MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA and tennis greats. We fans don our team colors, jeer at the enemy—no matter how long ago the rivalry took place—and marvel at the height, fitness, athleticism of the players...or what's left of it. But, what keeps me talking about this mid-summer classic, weeks, months and years later, isn't who won and by how many strokes (ok some women in my group do...Mark Mulder is now a three-time champion). Nor is it the planned and unplanned shenanigans, although I have to admit a few are highly entertaining. No, it's the human touch. It's what happens when the people we admire and appreciate connect with one another and with us. And, I've noticed, once you have you make a point to find "a little of that human touch," you'll see it everywhere.

How's that? It shouldn't be a surprise that sports fans arrive at this tourney with memorabilia, hungry to get it signed by some high-profile athletes (in recent years, that includes Steph Curry, Andre Igoudala, Aaron Rodgers, etc). However, fans are prohibited from bringing in

• Sports Memorabilia or Collectibles (jerseys must be worn or they will be confiscated)
• Baseballs, Basketballs, Footballs or Hockey Pucks

Consequently, most fans seek out an opportunity to take a photo or selfie, an autograph on what they are wearing and/or shake their hand. Typically, the fan initiates the encounter; I am impressed by how gracious and engaging the celebrities are with the men, women, teens, and kids who come their way. This outreach, however, is not always a one-way street. My crew has a few stories but Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young comes to mind.

So I'm just a little big of a fan of this group...Tim Brown ND '87 and 49er legends Steve Young and Jerry Rice

When I see the lefty, my mind feasts on memories of Young to Rice for a touchdown...for a win...for the Super Bowl championship. Young loves playing in the tourney with Jerry Rice and another NFL friend or former foe. This is an easy group for fans to follow, especially Bay Area brethren, as they are spirited and enjoy one another's company.

It's not an understatement to say that being a great QB requires astute vision. I saw that in action beyond the football field at the tourney when Steve Young caught sight of a 10-year old boy on crutches among the throng of fans. He looked at this young man with this gaze that indicated he had been there before...he understood what it meant to break a bone...to be injured...to be less mobile and in pain. Young initiated the contact and extended that human touch. He put his arm on the boy's shoulder. I don't know what they talked about...I don't need to. The heart understands. And as Steve Young walked away, this boy's smile said even more. I think some internal healing took place.

I was reminded of this small act of kindness just Sunday at mass when I sat behind a man whose foot is in a sophisticated cast and boot. He too walked into Church on crutches and sought out a pew that allowed for easy access and space for his leg. I realized taking communion might be difficult for him. It wasn't. When the time came for the congregation to line up. the pastor left the front of the line to bring the Eucharist to an elderly couple sitting toward the back. They are rather immobile—no matter. Father Ken brought Christ to them....and then he offered Jesus' body to the man sitting in front of me...and to another elderly person. In fact, he does this at every Mass, I just needed to connect the dots. This simple act isn't difficult to do. It requires vision and perhaps some empathy, but what happens in the process of extending a little of that human touch is some sort of healing.

What that each of us were to go out of our way for the elderly or injured? What if we were to reach out to those who are broken and in need of healing first? What if we made time for the immobile and those in pain by simply extending a little human touch. And it's not the sole responsibility of the pastor of a parish or a pro-athlete (although it is—as we look to their example). No, this is a call for all Christians. Such actions are what the Gospel proclaims and reveals: it is in the giving that we receive....in serving we are served. Let us all in these divisive times, make some gesture of outreach to one another. 

Photo Credits
Great 3 man group

Far-Sighted and Near-Sighted Vision in Sports

At my recent eye exam, I was reminded that our vision changes because our eyes do. My right eye is very weak and has a stigmatism. My left eye is much stronger but in the past few years has degenerated from 20/30 vision to 20/50. How I wish I was like my friend who discovered she was over-corrected in her prescription for contacts. Her sight was blurred because the change in her eyes made her vision stronger. Her words made me think about what else makes our vision stronger. Recent events in the wide world of sports has given me plenty of examples beyond good health, a healthy diet of carrots and dark, leafy greens, hydration, and limited sun exposure. Life experiences, age and wisdom each influence add to the mix.

Our Passions
I always tell my students that (most) everyone knows how to run, but not everyone is a runner. I query, When does someone become a runner? Some shy from labels, but I believe it's a question of identity, one of commitment and understanding. I write this because I now consider myself to be a golfer. 

When I joined the Olympic Club in 2013, my commitment to the game got a significant boost. I've been a long time fan of the PGA and the Majors are among my favorite sporting events. But sometime in the past year, something clicked. Perhaps it was my losing that raw fear of the game—not knowing if I would make regular contact with that 1.6" ball but I've witnessed a shift. And my new identity was revealed  in one of the most unlikely places: baseball.

I've attended hundreds of baseball games in my life. A loyal San Francisco Giants fan since my youth, I've seen a lot, including the cycle, but playing golf has changed how I see contact in the game. I have a much more accurate sense of how far the ball will travel, where it may draw or fade, how the wind will affect where it will land in the outfield, or beyond. My new vision caught me by surprise, a pleasant one. 

Playing on the Lakeside course on Sunday, my friend and I were paired with a Father-Son duo. I looked at the son and knowingly asked, "did you play baseball?" I enjoyed watching his ball with that perspective in mind.

What we are passionate can't help but color how we see other aspects of our life. Pay attention to what carries over.

Empathy
Millions of people struggle with back pain. I am now one of them.

As a runner, I always had a fair amount of lower back pain. The pounding of the pavement isn't just hard on one's knees. But last year, I did something to my right lumbar (?) and now ice, Alleve, Ibuprofen and stretching are a regular part of my daily life. When I first hurt it, at times it was so bad that it was hard to stand, sleep, and obviously, play golf. 

With time, rest and ice, the pain diminished—but every now and then it recurs. I lost a lot of golf but I gained empathy. I came to understand how people can become addicted to pain killers, to alcohol (it certainly cut the pain), and can get depressed. It should be of little surprise that  was reminded of that struggle when I watched Andre Igoudala during Game 6 of the NBA Finals. 

As written for SI.com

Early in the game, Iguodala had his back worked on during a timeout, and was forced to leave the game for a short period. He returned, but was seen hobbling on the floor. Still, he remained in the contest.

My respect and admiration for Iggy is sky-high. His defense against LeBron in the 2015 Finals is what led to the Warriors victory and his MVP award. But I also knew what a back injury does and as much as he wanted to give more, the body had other plans in mind.

Far-Sighted vs. Near Sighted
For some reason, my ability to see where her golf ball lands drives my friend Lisa crazy. She has said more than once "you don't even look and you know where it is." What she doesn't realize is that I am far-sighted. I can barely read the type face in Sports Illustrated these days and yet, I can see her golf ball sail 180 yards down the fair way with ease. 

It's tough to gauge how each one of us sees the world. We each carry a bias and as a sports fan, I try to balance by subjective point of view with an objective outlook—or to relate it to vision, I seek to consider a near-sighted view with a far-sighted one. We gain from each.

I write this because I am a LeBron James fan. Apart from "The Decision," I can't figure out a reason not to be. A four-time MVP in the NBA, James is an incredible athlete and competitor. Honestly, I won't even waste the time or effort to make a case for LeBron....I'll let his body of work speak for itself. But in the NBA Finals, my vision has helped me see something I don't like: LeBron's behavior on the court is increasingly more unsportsmanlike.

I know the pressure is on. No one wants another title, and one for NorthEast Ohio in the way James does, but with each additional game, as his reaction to calls, the way he is going after certain players and the refs leaves me unimpressed. In the 4th quarter of Game 6, he went after Steph, and my brother, who plays a lot of street basketball to this day, admitted what LeBron did was a "punk move." Warrior fans have created a mime about LeBron crying more that Riley Curry. It's funny because the cutie pie Riley is wearing Ray Ban aviators...and because it's more true than not.

I am aware that Steph was thrown out of the game because upon being charged for his sixth foul of the game he threw his mouthpiece. My far sighted vision sees that as comical. Up close, it's not much different.

C.S. Lewis had it right when he said, “What you see and what you hear depends a great deal on where you are standing. It also depends on what sort of person you are.” Our passions, life challenges, our gut instincts shape how we see what we see. Ultimately, our vision changes and will continue to change....because we do

Go Dubs

Photo Credits
Steph and LeBron
Iggy: from SI.com article

Truth and The Story Behind "The High Five"

Truth has a funny way of revealing itself, of being made known and understood. Truth is truth, whether or not I agree with it (that's another thing that's funny about truth). I've encountered truth through literature, art, Scripture, prayer, the classroom and in unlikely places too. I've found truth on the N Judah Muni line, in Yosemite Valley, and in a yearbook inscription. The other way I've found truth is in one of the simplest and most basic gestures—the high five. Here's the story...or stories. 

When I was in high school I could not wait for the distribution of yearbooks and the ritual of signing them. This was an important tradition to me. I was anxious to read what certain people might say. I was hoping others—certain boys—would ask to sign mine. I remember taking home the yearbooks of good friends because I had a near treatise of memories to recall.

Having an older brother, I also couldn't wait for the opportunity to look through his for several reasons. One, Mark attended De La Salle, an all boys' school. Though we largely went to "one school with two administrations," my high school, Carondelet had a separate yearbook. Thanks to him, I got to look through their annual. Two, as his annoying younger sister, I wanted to know what his friends wrote. My sister and I would tease him about what certain girls said and the phone numbers he got.   

I love this photo because it captures an "hell yeah" type of high-five. sometimes that's how you feel...

To this day, I can recall certain witty or creative messages. and a strange one. It said, "We mock what we don't understand." Why my brother's friend wrote this, I'm not sure—it's a bit sardonic for a yearbook posting—no? However, it has stayed with me and I think that's because it points to a certain truth. He's on to something. If we truly understand a person, a place, an idea, I don't know that we mock it (...although that's not entirely impossible). And I was reminded of it last week when a friend put down what I consider to be a positive, fun hand gesture: the high five. 

She said "the high five is lame. I think it is so overused and have don't have a lot of respect for people who use them." I had heard similar complaints about "The Wave" but never the high five.

I consider the high five a fundamental extension of our humanity. I can recall my nieces at 16 months learning to high five. We loved it. I think of the times I crave "a little of that human touch" (thank you Bruce Springsteen) and how in those moments, the high-five is relatively sufficient. For example, I've been excited to see my seniors after a big game or an big moment. A hug isn't entirely appropriate—however, a timely high five is. 

I think Iggy is giving Klay a big "oh yeah" type of high five here.

I think of many iterations of this hand slap and the degrees of emotion that characterize each one. Sorry folks, but when Klay Thompson drained that 3-pointer with 1:35 left in Game 6 to put the Warriors up by 3 against OKC, I reached across to Amy—a friend I've had since high school—and I gave her a high-ten with so much power and attitude, you would have thought I made the shot. (I'm sure there was a massive overbite going on at that moment too). No, in my world, there was no need to make an argument for the high five.

As I was thinking of the memorable high fives, of why and how it's fun, of a world without them, or making my case for them, another co-worker asked us if we had seen the "30 for 30" Short: The High Five.  We hadn't. He debriefed us on the story...I think you should watch it now.

I watched it and found myself totally unprepared—emotionally—for what lies behind this simple extension of one palm—raised in the air—as it meets another. Former LA Dodger, Dusty Baker who was in on the inception of the high five said "sometimes you don't know why you do the things you do, especially when you're extremely happy—you just respond to each other." That's part of how the high five was born....but there's more to it. My friend Elizabeth who once mocked the high five said "I have a whole new respect for the high five. Although, I will say I am an amateur high fiver due to my past reservations. Thanks for sharing Sean!" #truth

The conclusion of the video honors Glenn Burke, the inventor of the high five with these words: "A newspaper reporter tracked him down years after he had retired, and they asked him about the high five, he said "think about the feeling you get when you give the high five. I had that feeling years before anybody else." There's another type of truth in that. 

I hope when I get to heaven—pending God's approval—that I'm greeted with a high five from Dawn Hanson—my grade school track coach, Clarence Clemons, St. Peter and the inventor of it: Glenn Burke. RIP

Photo Credits
The High Five: Glenn Burke
Klay
Steph