Steph Curry – Steve Nash with a Title?

As I’ve mentioned to friends and tweeted several times, the Golden State Warriors faced very little adversity during the 2015/16 NBA season. Yes, their Coach, Steve Kerr, was out for an extended period because of his back, but that only seemed to make them stronger. With their swagger and dominance (and pursuit of 73 wins), I couldn’t help but wonder when adversity would hit them. I felt it was only a matter of time and thought it would probably be Curry.

Was anyone surprised when he hurt his ankle in Game 1 vs the Houston Rockets? With his history of ankle sprains and the 2011 surgery for torn ligaments, one would expect those issues to come back at some point. Did they really need to play him at all in this series against an awful Rockets team? The Warriors may regret that decision.

Were you surprised after Curry hurt his knee in Game 4? Maybe it was a fluke (slipping on the court) but for it to happen so quickly after his ankle injury makes me wonder about his durability. 

My friend Manfred tweeted this:

“82 regular season games of getting chased and pounded takes a toll on a small frame.”

Keep in mind that Curry didn’t even play in many 4^th quarters this season, so he should have a lot less ‘wear and tear’ on his body than other superstars - most of them having played higher minutes per game.

I enjoy Curry’s game immensely and love the way he competes and plays. He has made basketball more fun and inspired the art of shooting. As a sharp shooter in my high school and Division 1 collegiate days, watching Curry’s ball handling and insane shooting skills brings me great joy. In addition, I suspect he’s brought many new fans to the NBA and basketball in general.

But….whether it is past or present players, durability is essential to success in the NBA. 

Allen Iverson had a small frame as well, but was as durable as they come. Magic, Wade, Bird, Jordan, Thomas, Nowitzki, Duncan, Kobe, Stockton, Hakeem, Kareem, Big O, West, Frazier, Malone, Lebron, Ewing, Kidd, Pippin, Shaq, Dr. J, Moses, Barkley, Wilt, Russell, Cousy and Dumars, just to name a few, were all durable. They were out there for the majority of their ‘moment of truth’ playoff moments. As I write, Steph isn’t on the court in arguably the biggest playoff moment of his career.

As banged up as Dwayne Wade (3 Rings) has been in his career, he was on the hardwood when it came time to compete for the Championship. Isiah ‘Zeke’ Thomas (2 Rings) played on a bad ankle against my Lakers in the 1988 NBA Finals and scored 25 points in one quarter. After he returned from his baseball vacation, Jordan won 3 Titles and didn’t miss any games from 1995 to 1998. 

Most of the great players have been on the floor when it mattered most. Some of them have been hurt or not been a factor during a playoff run, but usually they were healthy enough to compete. Part of being great is being durable. Even Bill Walton (Mr. Bad ankles) won two titles. Imagine if he had been healthy.

Do I think Curry will return this season? No, I don’t. 

I’m hopeful though, especially for all the fans of the game who want to see the Warriors make a historic run after going 73-9 (a record) in the regular season. He’s already out for two weeks, which mentally will be tough on both the team and Curry.  If Curry should return, his mind and body will be thinking about the aforementioned injuries and that can’t be positive for his psyche.

This could very well be the beginning of the end for Steph, as injuries may rear their ugly head and not give him the chance to compete at his highest level. With Curry’s contract (only $11 million per year and low for a superstar) up at the end of next season, the Warriors will be between a rock and a hard place. Do they really want to give him maximum money ($20 million+ per year) with the chance that he could become another Grant Hill?

I feel bad for him, as he’s a class individual and the team had a chance to do something special, by winning back to back NBA Championships. With him healthy, I felt they would have closed the deal. In addition, Curry’s status as a 2x Champion would have put him in that ‘Isiah Thomas’ category. Without that second ring, one can’t place him in that rarified air.

Can the Warriors win a NBA Title without Curry? Slim to no chance in my opinion. The Spurs and Cavaliers are too strong and currently healthy. Even if Curry does return, a sprained knee isn’t the type of injury one wants to come back from after being out 2-3 weeks.

With Curry expected to win his 2^nd consecutive MVP Trophy this season, I immediately thought of Steve Nash; who won two MVP’s as well, but never got that Championship. If Curry stays healthy for the next 6-7 years, he has a chance to become the best guard of all time. Steph will go down as one of the best shooters in NBA history no matter what his future holds, but getting more rings, having longevity like Nash and being durable is a big question mark.

I will leave you with this timely message from Ben Golliver on Twitter:

“Stephen Curry news reminds me of crazy Lebron James factoid: He’s never missed a playoff game for any reason. 42.5 MPG/182 games in playoffs.”

Happy Gswede Tuesday!

Nash and Curry in Action

Overjoyed

As I was leaving the International School my kids attend one day last month, I started randomly singing the words to Stevie Wonder's 'Overjoyed' - a long-time favorite song. I love when lyrics pop into my head and the words flow effortlessly.

And though you don't believe that they do

They do come true
For did my dreams 
Come true when I looked at you
(Overjoyed- Stevie Wonder)

I'm joyful daily for the life I have been blessed with, along with being grateful for my loving wife, healthy kids and a strong group of caring friends and family.

The love and happiness at the school that morning for 'World Cultural Day' was inspiring. It was easy to be overjoyed. Watching the student body (50 nationalities) and many proud parents enjoying the moment and each other was heart-warming.

Those types of moments exemplify what many of us need to do more of  - namely to embrace diversity. One of the most important things we can do in our daily journey is to continue to or start to 'Embrace The Diversity in Our World', along with opening up our children to the beauty and differences of the youth around them. Children often need a push to get out of their comfort zone of sameness.

Next time you are in a room (after work, on vacation, at a party, with friends or attending an event, etc), take a look around and examine the diversity. You may be surprised by what you don't see. It's a simple and quick way to get one sense of the diversity in your life. If you tend to see people who look like you or think like you or act like you, chances are that your world (and most likely your children too) needs a higher dose of diversity.

I realize that diversity is not appealing to everyone. I know a few people and families where that is the case. It's disheartening, especially for the young children who are taught not to embrace diversity, even though diversity will be almost impossible for them to avoid and essential to navigate in order to have a well-rounded life.

In my eyes, one of the most beautiful sights is a room full of diversity. I saw it in full bloom that morning and see it often. I hope you do too.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

World Cultural Day

Contemplations in Tokyo

Each Martin Luther King Jr. holiday (this past January 18 in the USA), my thoughts tend to stir and I reflect on one or several aspects of his wisdom. It fuels and inspires me at the beginning of each New Year. I also listen to a few of his speeches, one of which I wrote about several years ago.

"I Have a Dream" speech - Powerful Words, Useful for Today

In 2016, after almost 5 months of living in Tokyo, his "content of character' has been on my mind.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.

(Martin Luther King Jr.)

I’ve been refreshed by the positive way I've been treated in Tokyo. Thus far, people see me for who I am and judge me on my character, which has not always been the case in other countries. I know I’m still in that honeymoon stage with Japan, yet the feeling I get is comforting.

Whether it’s been expats from all over the world, American's who have lived in Japan a long time or local Japanese friends, my heart has been warmed by their kindness, energy, help and enthusiasm in this colossal city. My two months living in Belgrade, Serbia in 2005 were very similar to the Tokyo atmosphere now, although in Serbia I spent the majority of my time with locals.

Belgrade, Serbia - City with a Soul

I realize that the International and expat crowd (especially in Tokyo) tend to be more open-minded and worldly, but I didn't expect such a powerful dose of genuine interest in getting to know one another. It's been a thrill networking with and learning about so many diverse and interesting people.

Despite what's been a wonderful expat journey of living in my 3rd country, there have been too many times (primarily in the USA and Sweden) when I've been looked at for 'what I am not', treated as a stereotype or the most disheartening.......as if I were invisible. It wasn’t always about my color; sometimes I was treated unfairly or unkindly simply because I was different from the norm.

In those instances, the 'content of my character' didn't mean a thing. I've written sparingly about it (two stories are below), but the sting of those moments is not easily forgotten, especially by several people who grew up in a loving household and I expected so much more from.

A “Donald Sterling” Under the Radar

A Dream Fulfilled, A Wish Denied 

On the flip side, my race and culture (linked with sports prominence) has also provided significant personal and professional benefits throughout my life, which has undoubtedly helped to lessen the pain of those troubling experiences.

When I hear from friends or members of my inner circle about their racial issues or not being given the chance to fit in, it reinforces how much easier I had it with racism and being accepted.

My background (high school sports star, collegiate basketball player and working in sports) was a blessing in many ways as the problems I experienced in sports were rare compared to the world outside of sports. I’ve always loved that about team sports (along with sports in general), in that it matters most what one does on the field or court. If one can play ball, skin color or uniqueness usually takes a back seat.

I'm grateful for Tokyo and the generosity of spirit and friendship I've encountered. It's a magnificent thing to be experiencing, particularly with all the chaos going on in our global world – including the disturbing climate (see articles below) among a small yet significant portion of Sweden.

Sweden’s welcome to refugees disturbed by violent backlash

Sweden’s anti-refugee vigilantism has revealed its dark side

I've not given up on some of the arrogant, selfish or uncompassionate souls who have never seen me and many others for the content of our characters. These people (who need our compassion more than most) have thankfully been a small part of my USA and Swedish experience, as most I’ve crossed paths were genuine and good people.

I may still be in the company of some of the aforementioned lost souls in the future, yet they will always be treated with kindness and positivity. Maybe one day they will begin to see the light. My actions may never be reciprocated by them, but one thing is certain - I will never let them darken my day or turn me into something I'm not.

And as we (USA) choose our next President in the not to distant future, it’s vitally  important to keep in mind another one of Dr. King’s quotes:

Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.

(Martin Luther King Jr.)

Here’s hoping more of us continue or begin to show sincere interest in those we come in contact with in the New Year, especially those who aren’t like us or have a different culture. It’s one way we can all help our communities, nations and world become a happier and more unified place.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

The Countries of the Student Body at the International School my Children Attend
(50 Nationalities / 330 Students)

Bright Lights, Big City (The Sequel)

It's only been a few weeks, but I’m in Tokyo’s rapture. The energy, order, beauty, cleanliness and sizzle of this city of 14 million is enthralling.

One of my first thoughts was about my decade living in New York City (NYC); an experience invaluable living here. I left the Big Apple 11 years ago, so the endurance a NYC requires wasn’t top of mind. The stamina needed was a bit of a surprise during the beginning moments in Tokyo, although I quickly felt comfortable with the rapid pace of the world’s largest city.  The walking and enormous subway system alone is hectic, but if you’ve never had this type of lifestyle, the acclamation could be difficult.

We hit the ground running after arriving on a Saturday morning. Time waits for no one. During the weekend, we explored our area of Shibuya and bought some basic needs for the apartment. We went to a local park, had dinner out, went swimming, visited a playground and soaked in the newness and uniqueness of Tokyo.

Colossal is another word for this place, as some streets are packed beyond belief and as far as the eye can see. Watching 500-800 people on a street corner has not been an uncommon sight. The walking was tough on the kids initially, as not only did we walk more than they are used to, but the temperatures were humid and hot (23c/74f to 26c/82f). 

Takeshita Street in Tokyo

Some of the subways are so far underground that you can walk inside them for 10 minutes - before you get on your train. And the Tokyo trains are everything NYC is not; on time, super clean, air conditioned and orderly. They can be ‘face to face’ packed at times, but if you miss a train, the next one is sure to be 5 minutes later.

The cleanliness of the entire city is almost unreal. I don’t know how they keep everything so spotless.  During our June visit, I saw a worker tidying up a perfectly clean and empty subway car. That picture painted a thousand words about Japan.

After three visits to a store, my lovely wife cooked a delicious chicken curry stew for our first Sunday night dinner. In addition, one of the few appliances we have is a rice cooker, which we managed successfully, although never expecting it to take 50 minutes. It was perfect though.

The food here is outstanding, as I expected from Japan’s stellar reputation. The Japanese have the globe's best longevity (88 for women and 83 for men), and the way they eat is a big reason why. One can buy very good sushi in a local supermarket and eating simple food out is much cheaper than cooking food at home.

Yoyogi Park on a Sunday

Across the street from our building is a large sports complex with a gym, swimming pool, track and soccer field – which is a great luxury. The 2 pools were a boatload of fun with the kids on Sunday, although they have a lot of rules, including everyone wearing a cap in the pool - even bald guys.

After the first 3-5 days, reality started to set in when my wife was getting ready to begin her new job and the kids were starting at their International School.  Needless to say, our children were extremely tired after day one, but their optimism about this new atmosphere made us feel good about our school choice. There are 330 students and 50 nationalities; and they get 50 minutes of Japanese everyday.

I’ve kept my running up during the first two weeks, which helped me to get over my jet lag. I visited a friend in Seiju (35 minutes by train) for a 5k, which will be even more picturesque in the spring, as the cherry blossoms span the whole length of the small river running path we took. Exploring is a vital part of getting to know a new city, so I plan to do as much as I can.

Meiji Jingu (Shinto Shrine)

We’ve also met quite a few Swedes here, which give us that touch of familiarity. In addition, the expat community is strong and I’ve had numerous conversations with people from all parts of the world.  The majority have been lively and interesting, which has been refreshing. My son had his 2^nd Sunday of soccer practice already, which he is happy about as he loves the game and the club has an international flavor.

A few invitations for dinner and brunch came our way promptly. Gaining insight and tips about Tokyo from folks who have been living here much longer than we have is important. I also had a friend visiting for business, who invited me to a wonderful rooftop bar. It had magnificent views of the city! Although I was supremely tired that Friday night, I made sure to push myself out the door at 10:30pm, as I hadn’t seen this former colleague in 13 years.

Andaz Tokyo Hotel

Finally, a rare ‘wow’ moment hit me as I was visiting Costco with a long time USA friend. She has been living here for 18 years. As we were walking the enormous aisles, I couldn’t help but wonder….”what are the chances of two east coast USA expats being on the outskirts of Tokyo shopping together?”  A wave of gratitude ran through me.

This is the third country (Sweden and Serbia being first) I’ve lived in outside of my birthplace in the USA. I never imagined having the opportunity to live in such thrilling and/or interesting places around the world. I’m thankful.

It's crystal clear that Tokyo is a city like no other and I can’t wait for it all to unfold in the next 3 years.

I don’t foresee any journey equalling the Manhattan magic, but Tokyo is on track to be a worthy sequel.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

Tokyo at Night

Thank You ‘Pearson Education’ Family

My first year at Pearson (2007) was a combination of 'information overload' as a new employee and 'blissful fatherhood' as my wife and I welcomed our first child. I began work two weeks after our son was born.

During 2007 and 2008, I was away from work for 4 months, as I had the privilege of being on parental leave with my young son. It wasn’t easy balancing a new job and baby, although I made some good progress and had an exciting beginning with both.

In those early years, my Nordic colleagues were there for me with a helping hand, which I appreciated. Any success I had was due in large part to the guidance and support I received from our team.

2009 was a magical year in many ways. It began with seeing one of my Dutch colleagues receive an award on stage in Lisbon, Portugal. His joyful smile after winning inspired me that night and I vowed to be on that stage the following year.  

I wrote about it in an article called "Inspiration from NOT Being Called on Stage".

Fortunately, I had my best year at Pearson, winning the '2009 Rep of the Year' in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMA). What made it even more special was that I stopped working at the end of August in 2009, as I began my second parental leave (5 months) with our daughter. I made it to that stage in 2010, this time in Monte Carlo. The aforementioned colleague was one of the first to congratulate me on winning EMA’s top sales award.

More Pearson excitement came from meeting and getting to know my European colleagues during those years, especially the ones in the UK (as we had numerous meetings in England) and those in Holland, as we went to Amsterdam for three consecutive years for a summer conference.

In addition, our annual January conference (4-5 days) often took place in a nice European city, where I had a chance to network and learn from employees from a wide range of EMA countries. Those times were invaluable.

At the conference, we worked hard during the day, yet always had good times at night, whether it was with our Nordic team or a combination of colleagues from EMA. The Gala Dinner (Awards and Dancing) was something everyone looked forward to and it only disappointed in the rare times when our hotel ballroom had to turn the music off before 2am.

Being on ‘The Sales Leadership Council’ was an early goal for me also, as our team often had strong representation on this group of ‘top sales performers’, including four Nordic colleagues in 2007 before I started. For those chosen, it was an all expenses paid trip to a lovely city in Europe. It was a combination of work and relaxation, with each person allowed to bring a guest.

I qualified for the council the first year I was eligible in 2011 - the location being Sardinia, Italy, which was a fabulous 3 day weekend!  It was a joy to spend time with Pearson’s top performers and listen to their sales strategies for winning business. In addition, a group of high level managers were in attendance each year. The intimate setting of 50 colleagues provided a great way to get to know these managers.

Our EMA team had some wonderful print and digital success over the years, and the Nordics were an integral part of that success. I’m grateful to have played a part in increasing Sweden’s sales during that time, as well as the quality relationships I built with my colleagues in EMA and the Swedish universities I worked with.

Of course there were some frustrations, setbacks and disappointments, but overall my Pearson Education experience was fantastic. The ‘thrill of the sale’ was my daily inspiration and I was often motivated to be even better after seeing the strong efforts put forth by my Nordic colleagues, along with those I was close to in the UK, Holland and throughout EMA.

I’m full of gratitude for my almost 9 years at Pearson. Our Nordic team had a boatload of success, but I realize that it wouldn’t have been as good (or fun) without the support and care of numerous EMA colleagues that I was fortunate to work with since 2007.

Thank you Pearson Family. I wish you nothing but success as our family embarks on our next journey in Tokyo, Japan.

Keep Closing!

The Nordic Team in Stockholm - June 2015

Overwhelmed with Love, Help and Support

On Tuesday, it will be 4 months since my dear mother (Isabella Payne) died. In that time, I've been overwhelmed with support from all angles - close friends, old friends, colleagues, charities, people I didn't know well, some I didn't know at all and of course my loving wife and family.

I'm not easily impressed, although I was touched by all the love given and help offered; especially by some friends I hadn’t seen in over a decade.  I couldn't use the majority of the support, but just the fact that it was put forth so genuinely was of great comfort.

In addition, many of the wise words, advice, emails, letters, cards, texts and video's as I was going through this surreal experience helped immensely. I was also glad to see the thoughtful donations given to my mom’s favorite charities, including the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank and American Diabetes Association.

One of the most memorable moments occurred at my mother’s Memorial on May 11, which was attended by approximately 250 people. Numerous individuals whispered in my ear; telling me what my mother meant or did for them.

Through it all, my caring cousin, Andrea Nolley, was there for me. She was my rock in the USA before my mother died, during her sickness and the 4 months since she passed. I'll forever be grateful for all that she did and continues to do. My mother loved her like a daughter.

Living in Sweden presented a huge obstacle to getting all the estate particulars done in the USA, but since my mother was very organized, the main tasks (financial part/house cleaning) went smoothly. She had a will and was with the same lawyer for over 25 years, which made the process much easier.

The final piece of the estate puzzle (closing on my mom’s house) was settled a few weeks ago. I sold it to a family friend and couldn’t be happier to have the house in the care of someone we know.

And how fitting that after everything was done in the USA, I received a beautiful hand drawing of my mom. What a lovely gesture from a talented artist and good friend.

Thanks to everyone who supported me and the many that offered help. Your kindness warmed my heart and was crucial in helping me navigate a most challenging summer. My appreciation is high for each and every one of you.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

1982 - The night I scored my 1000th point in High School. I presented the game ball to my mother.

Happy Birthday IGP!

As my family was boarding a recent flight back to Copenhagen, my 6 year old daughter started crying. She told my wife "I miss Grandma". 

She remembered that we were supposed to be visiting my mother this past week. It would have been the first time the kids enjoyed the warm east coast of America during the beginning of summer. In addition, we were going to celebrate Grandma's birthday and mine. 

Because we live in Sweden, my daughter has had less than ten visits with my mother, although the emotion she felt warmed my heart. She loved her Grandma. 

My mother died almost two months ago. It was a hectic time as her illness took a dire turn for the worse, but thankfully I made it home for her final 24 hours. Writing about that experience was something I needed to share.

A Dying Mother Waits For Her Only Child

During the last 60 days, I've been reflecting on my mother's Memorial Celebration, which took place on May 11, 2015. Those two hours have comforted me immensely and helped to ease the pain of losing her.

Once my wife, cousin, uncle, aunt and I were seated, I noticed that only 30-40 people were inside. What I had forgotten about is the tradition of guests arriving to greet those family members in the front row. 

The loving words I heard weren't unexpected as I knew my mother loved deeply and gave with all her heart. What was unexpected were the private stories whispered in my ear; some from people I had never met before. 

One was particularly memorable as a woman I didn't know, told me how much she appreciated Mom faithfully visiting her dying mother and doing whatever she could to help ease the burden. That was classic IGP (Isabella G. Payne), being there for those in need.

I noticed that the place was filling up and there was still a long line of greeters.

Throughout, there were an inordinate amount of people from one of my mother's favorite charities - The Central PA Food Bank. She volunteered there for 17 years. I greeted at least 15, including one woman who wrote me the most beautiful personal note about her friendship with Mom - words I had someone read at the Memorial. 

The people kept coming. It was starting to get warm (86f outside) so I had them crank up the air conditioner. A cool atmosphere is critical for times like this. All the hand held fans disappeared.

It was a good thing the place was able to expand, as they needed to slide panels away and bring in more chairs. By the time the greeting line ended, it was standing room only. There were approx 225 people there.

The celebration started beautifully as Mom's good friend and Pastor (Thornell Strawn) set the tone. He gracefully paraphrased what my mother had told him during her last hours.

"If they are expecting a funeral, tell them to go Home. I want it to be a celebration". 

And a celebration it was, led by Pastor Strawn. He ran the program flawlessly and was relaxed, warm and in the moment.

There were two singers selected by my mother. One a man (Mario Witt), who sang a favorite song of Mom's. The other was by Alice Penn, who has a lovely voice. Both songs joyfully lifted the room higher as music often does. I wish they had sung two songs each.

3 people spoke. 

Mom's good friend Mary Alice Crosson began and celebration was on top of her mind. She was witty, sincere and captured the essence of Mom as a friend. The crowd was smiling during her 10 minutes; a speech she did without notes.

My dear cousin Andrea Nolley was next. She was like a daughter to my mom and knew her as well as anyone. In my absence, she looked after her better than I ever expected. I'll be forever grateful for that act of love. 

Her speech was eloquent and moving. The audience was listening intently and she couldn't have honored her Aunt any better. Not long after, My wife Matilda mentioned how impressed she was. Andrea was a hard act to follow.

I was third in line and talked about motherhood and the lessons/values Mom instilled in me. 

A passage is below.

"As a mother, she was primarily about 3 things….Love, Discipline and Dedication. She taught me well and provided many lessons along the way. I affectionately called my mother IGP (her initials) sometimes, and IGP was very focused on making sure that she raised a good son. She was no nonsense and uncompromising on the values she wanted to instill in me, yet she always surrounded me with fun, happiness and love. I couldn’t have asked for a better childhood."

I ended the talk by reading a favorite poem I had written for her almost 15 years ago to the day. I held my emotions together as I knew I would. It was only the last few lines when I felt my insides begin to quiver and my lips start to tremble.

Mom's eulogy was given by a deacon (Joe Robinson) at my Mom's church. I had heard him speak numerous times and he never disappointed. Mom had asked him to do this five years ago.

His story of Mom's giving nature was superb. He compared her experience to a woman in the bible and provided a powerful lesson. I have no doubt he inspired many to rethink how they give to the world. In addition, he talked about how focused and diligent she was in rising to important jobs during her 35 years in state government; something not easy for a black woman to do back in those days.

And the spirit of the moment caught him more than once, often speaking extemporaneously and with a fiery passion. It was obvious he put an immense amount of thought into the eulogy, which I appreciated. At one point he said to the crowd "I'm almost finished", although I was hoping he was not. My hope was fulfilled as his wonderful words kept dancing, much to my delight.

After the Memorial, we invited the crowd to enjoy a meal at the room above. It was the perfect ending to what was a magnificent celebration...exactly what my mother wanted.

In the week after, Mom's 84 year old Brother (Stewart Robinson) said to me three times how impressed he was with the Memorial. That felt good as Andrea and I wanted it to be special for Mom's siblings. 

My Mom would have been 78 years old today (June 28). The physical is gone but her spirit of love, compassion and giving shines brightly.

Happy Birthday IGP.

Happy Gswede Sunday!

Donald, Isabella and George Payne - 1977 (Grandfather's 70th Birthday)