Real.

Ok, look, I know. I should have just re-named this blog "All things Gilbert", or something to that effect. But do yourself a favor and read this http://www.nba.com/blog/gilbert_arenas#070322_01 (yes I didn't do all the cool little html code, just read it).

Yes, there are grammar mistakes, it's a little long, but it's easily the most refreshing thing an athlete has said in quite some time. I could not agree more with everything written.

What he is conveying is what each and every one of us strives for in life. To be able to laugh at yourself, have fun, and recapture a youthful exuberence we all aspire to achieve. We always long for the days when we were young, and could go out and be silly. Gilbert IS doing that.

It's the reason I enjoy going to sporting events so much. It's ABOUT that moment, that temporary reprieve from the world's realities. I want to laugh, joke, be with friends, cheer, boo, and see things not many can do. I know they may be over paid, and it's just a big business. But when you look inside of all of that, every so often, you find someone like Gilbert Arenas. it's refreshing, it's honest, it's everything YOU would do if given that same chance.

He connects with the every day fan, and it's a vital reason why he has becomed loved by the likes of myself, and the "younger" "blogger" generation. He may not be a "hero" by definition, but you sure can do worse than a guy who is a great father, loves living life, smiles, enjoys other company, and accomodates his fans.

We all have a tendacy to make life a bit too hard sometimes, I fall victim often myself. Then you read the thoughts from someone, albeit one in a different place in life, and it puts things in perspective. From counting blessings, remembering how great life is, to stopping and just smile every once in awhile. Gil's blog may as well be a mission statement to what sports, and why we watch, is all about.

Go out there and laugh kids. Enjoy the ride.