As I watched the bongo player pound out beats I looked at his face beaming with joy. His smiles made me feel connected with the sound radiating from the stage. He was just one of nine guys in the band, but his energy was real.

I've been told many times that I am lucky to be doing something I really love with my life. I have work that I am passionate about and really look forward to working with people. I question this sometimes. I know I have been given a lot of breaks, but I also seize my opportunities. I work extremely hard. I crap, eat, sleep, suffer, cry, and laugh like everyone else. Lucky is vague.

Passion is a state of mind. It is pure energy, never black and white, and always has a mysterious elusiveness. It is 90% monotony, 10% sex. It requires patience to learn, perseverance to work past failure, and a desire to share something with the world that goes beyond a quick buck. It is raw. It makes you scream with joy. Lucky is limiting.

Passion is learning. Passion is sharing. Passion is obtained by letting yourself feel the world. Live.