I recently got a chance to do something I'd always wanted to try: bull riding. Sure, I'm getting a little old for it. Sure, it's been called " the most dangerous 8 seconds in sports ." That didn't matter to me. It was worth it. Both times.

People generally act with some mixture of surprise and concern for my mental health. But I assure them I'm fine.

I had a chance to realize a childhood dream and took it. But I won't lie... it was terrifying. While I was pulling on the chaps I was so full of adrenaline that I was fumbling words. I had to concentrate in order to finish a thought. My hands were numb. The cowboys simply called it "respect for the bull."

Trust me, it was just a completely justifiable reaction. That massive bull tossed me off with ease. I lasted maybe just a couple seconds.

Anyway, I had wanted to draw this into a programming post somehow but I was making all sorts of overwrought analogies that just didn't work. Actually, if I were being honest with myself, I just wanted to tell everybody how much fun I had. So I won't be paining myself to stretch this post. Instead, go watch "Dead Poets Society," or Steve Jobs address Stanford , or whatever inspires you. Then stop procrastinating and get back to work!

• _ No bulls were hurt in the making of this post. This particular bull will be a PBR bull someday, which makes him something of a prize and livelihood for his owner. He has every incentive to take care of them. And no, before you ask . _