For awhile now, I have been under the impression that my presence at a sporting event may influence the outcome. The Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh says, "Every breath we take adds something to the Universe." So I say, "Why not?"

After our family moved to Indianapolis in 1984, we attended a lot of Pacers' games. My brother Jim and I were determined to sway the game in the Pacers favor. But the Pacers were mediocre at best.

My father and I enjoy attending Butler's mens basketball games. I give my enthusiastic support to the Bulldogs. When the opposition is shooting free throws I try to create distractions. I often leave Hinkle Fieldhouse with a strained voice.

Dad and I attended three games last year. And despite my best efforts, the Bulldogs were only 1-2 for those games. Keep in mind that the Dawgs were one of the best teams in the country last season.

I think that Thich Nhat Hanh was right, but perhaps the Universe is not that concerned about the outcome of basketball games.