NBA Basketball

ANDREW: So where are you from, John?

JOHN: I'm from Chicago.

ANDREW: Chicago? Really? So are you a...

JOHN: Wait! Don't finish your question.

ANDREW: Why not?

JOHN: I want to guess what you are going to ask me.

You are going to say: "So are you a Bulls fan?"

ANDREW: Yes, how did you know?

JOHN: Because every time I tell people I'm from Chicago,

they always ask the same question.

ANDREW: But that's because there are a lot of Bulls fans here in Taiwan.

JOHN: I can see that.

They're everywhere. Even some of my students--nine-year-old kids--they are Bulls fanatics.

ANDREW: Do you think that's bad?

JOHN: No, I think it's amusing. It is just a surprise to me. I like the Bulls too.

ANDREW: What do you think about Jordan quitting?

JOHN: Well, I know most Bulls fans are disappointed.

But as for me, I think it is an honorable decision.

ANDREW: What do you mean?

JOHN: I always think it is good to make it to the top, to do one's best.

But then, when you've done the best you can, it is good to stop there.

In English, we say: "Quit while you're ahead."

ANDREW: I'm not sure I understand.

JOHN: I will say it differently then.

You know how Jordan is one of the great basketball players of all time.

ANDREW: Yes, it is obvious.

JOHN: And if he plays next year, do you think he can do better?

I mean, can he improve?

ANDREW: No, I don't see how he can. He is already at the top.

JOHN: Well, that's what I mean.

If he continues, he can only do the same thing again, or he can start to go downhill.

And why go downhill? Why not quit when one is at the top?

ANDREW: Now I understand. You think Jordan made the right decision then.

JOHN: Sure. As we say in English: "Quit while you're ahead."