I have had the good fortune to experience a lot of cool things in my career, but today was certainly a highlight. I attended an event with a private cello performance by Yo-Yo Ma, and was sitting in the front row less than 10 feet away from him as he played his 1712 Stradivarius. It was, of course, incredible.

My first thought was that it was amazing to watch one of the greatest of all time perform.

My second thought was that I had no idea playing the cello was so physical. I was so close that I could hear the “thwack” of Yo-Yos fingers striking the ebony fingerboard as he played, and the forceful hand motion of his vibrato caused his entire body to shake. Meanwhile, his face alternated from fierce concentration to being lost in a trance.

My third thought was that it must be strange to know that every day, for the people you meet, it is one of the most memorable days of their life, and for you, it’s Tuesday.

Yo-Yo also spoke before his performance, and was witty, funny, sincere, and eloquent. I hope I get to see him again someday.