or what you do for a living (although I have a faint recollection of you being in law school or something?), but let me share some insight that I've gained over time.

1. Playing with the big boys has its benefits, but is has a cost.
2. People who have survived life-threatening illnesses have a different set of priorities than those who have not

My personal insights on this:

- I was supposed to die from melanoma in 2006. I kicked it with the help of some great doctors.
- I was up for a huge promotion at Microsoft in 2006 - one of those jobs where I would never have to worry about my finances again
- I walked away from the promotion and went and took a huge pay cut to work for the gov't in a research capacity. I fulfilled my 2-year commitment, then started my own companies. I work maybe 8 months of the year and spend 4 months hanging with my kids. I'm OK $$-wise, but not where I would be had I taken the Microsoft promotion. But, I'm fine with the situation. I don't have to put up with people who think that all that matters in life is work. I work to support my lifestyle - nothing more.

So, before you start spouting off about how pissed Rose would be about turning down the Big12, make sure you understand the mindset of someone who has played a game with much more serious consequences than basketball.