Quitting While Ahead

I just read the news that Joaquin Phoenix is retiring from acting altogether, to pursue music. Personally, I respect it when someone follows their heart and pursues what makes them happy. Especially someone like Phoenix, who has nothing left to prove, and has left his mark, which will stand the test of time.

To be honest, there has only been one great in my lifetime, whose retirements I disagreed with. That man is Michael Jordan. I didn’t want to see him leave basketball after his father died in the 90′s, but I left it alone, since I thought it might help Patrick Ewing get a ring. Too bad Olajuwan and the folks in Houston had other plans during that time.

Then, Jordan’s second retirement was brought on when the Bulls management wouldn’t bring back Phil Jackson. I felt like I was robbed of at least two more years of MJ greatness by off-court factors. Now Jordan’s 3rd retirement after his stint with the Wizards, I agreed with wholeheartedly. He was still very good, but having to watch him transition from “Air Jordan” to “Old-Assed On The Ground Jump-Shooting Jordan” was a little rough for me at times.

Even Barry Sanders’ retirement was accepted by me, because I can understand why someone would want to leave the game of football on their own terms. Too many people get hurt and have their career ended in ways they can’t control, so I respected Barry’s decision 100%. Plus, he got no help from the Lions organization, so why not walk away while you’re rich and still healthy enough to walk straight?

So once again, congratulations on following your heart, Joaquin. He’s paid, so why not live off some of that movie star money and do what makes him truly happy? I’ll admit, movie fans like myself will miss the guy. I personally still quote stuff he said from Gladiator every now and then…

“He vexes me…I am truly vexed!”

But yeah, play your guitar, or whatever it is that you do, and remember: Acting offers way less wear and tear on your body that sports, so if the music thing doesn’t pan out, you can always come back.

I wish it were that easy for non-rich people, though. Most people, if you leave a successful career for something artistic, it means years of struggle, as well as getting used to meals of bread and Ramen noodles. Whatever the case, I want all of my creative folks to keep following their dreams. As long as you’ve set a solid plan in place, good things are going to happen!