I have this canvas print that I bought online a few years ago. It’s a Banksy + Mr. Brainwash fusion with Albert Einstein standing in front of a graffiti wall in New York City holding up a protest sign that reads “Love is the Answer”. I bought it because I’ve always believed that love is a foundational element of leadership. When you come from a place of love you are leading to give not leading to get. Ultimately it’s in the giving that we receive.
Last summer I got home from delivering a closing keynote on leadership for 1,000 people in Cleveland. 
When I opened my mailbox amongst the junk mail was a larger envelope with something soft inside. It felt like a t-shirt. But, I opened it up and it was a green and yellow jersey. I immediately knew it was Matt Thomas’s jersey from the Utah Jazz. There was no note. No card. I thought Matt just sent me a jersey. I laughed a little. I’ve known him since he was 12 years old so I thought it was a little odd that he wouldn’t include a note. But, then I turned it around and on the number “21” he inscribed the following:
“Mike, you gave me an opportunity to play for The Playmakers which led to a love and passion for the game that I still have today. Thanks for all of the knowledge and advice over the years. Love you man!” – signed, Matt Thomas
I started Wisconsin Playmakers, a youth basketball club, for one reason. To give kids with big dreams the skills, resources and experiences to bring those dreams to life. I remember the first workout I ever ran one of the kids cried. 5 years later he fully understood and thanked me for teaching him how to fight through the fatigue, get out of his comfort zone and rely on your vision when things get tough. That only happened because he knew I loved him.
You might find it ironic, but I’m not really a “sports” guy. For many years l loved — no, I was obsessed with basketball. But at my heart I’m a creative. I never thought I’d be the guy with sports memorabilia in his basement complimenting his pool table. Nothing wrong with it. That’s just not who I am.
But, this jersey is going up. Right next to the Banksy knock off. To remind me that in leadership “Love is Answer”.
LET’S GET TO THE NEXT LEVEL. TOGETHER.
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