Living The Dream That Is March Madness

March Madness. Survive and advance. One play at a time. Protect the basketball. Defend and rebound.

These are more than just over-used phrases that make an annual appearance in March. They truly epitomize the "in the moment, right here, right now" mentality that pervades the NCAA men's basketball tournament.

March Madness is more than just excitement, upsets, and drama. It is about college athletes, their passion for the sport of basketball, and the opportunity to play on the big stage. And it is definitely a spectacle to behold, a microcosm of life itself.

After a weekend's worth of hoops - including a couple of days at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin watching second and third round games - I was reminded yet again of how special this month really is.

Yes, I enjoy just about any sport played at its highest level. But college basketball is a game of simplicity and beauty, power and elegance, speed and determination.

Although the 10 foot high cylinder is the same everywhere the game is played, March Madness somehow becomes a great equalizer between the Harvards and the Dukes, the Wichita States and the Gonzagas, the Davids and the Goliaths. It is a world in which a 15th seeded Florida Gulf Coast University can live the dream and advance to the Sweet 16 – the first 15th seed to do so in the history of the tournament.

Many of these players have been dreaming of having an opportunity to play in the Big Dance since they first picked up a basketball. For many, it is the pinnacle of sport as they know it. They have been presented with the opportunity to live the dream. And they grasp it.

Most of these athletes won't go on to have a career in professional basketball. Most won't ever have the opportunity to even play in the NCAA final. That is reserved for a rare group. For the majority, each tournament game is an opportunity to enjoy the thrill and sheer joy of playing at the highest level, playing a game that they obviously love so dearly. One play at a time. Survive and advance.

The beauty of the month of March is in the exuberance, humility, passion, and child-like emotion that transcends a mere schoolyard game. It is the spirit of "right here, right now". It is all of the great metaphors for life - wrapped up in a 40 minute game. And more. It creates memories that you will, as an athlete and as a human, never forget.

In March, dreams do come true. It is 40 minutes of living the dream. One moment at a time. And that's what makes March Madness so special. Thanks for letting us live the dream with you.

Photo credits: abesselink