The Closest Thing We Have to Magic

A Biographical Timeline • November 6, 2025

Jun 14, 1985 My name is Van D. Trinh, born (as DVT) on the northern coast of Vietnam. Our family immigrated to Canada when I was five. Settling in a small town in Southwestern Ontario where all the kids would attend Catholic school.
1998 In grade 8, I played Jesus in the school play. Mr. Thus walked into the class and asked, “Who wants to play Jesus?” Nobody said anything so I raised my hand. In the end, it was between me and a girl, we picked straws and I won.
2016 In 2016, I started dabbling in standup comedy, philosophy and writing on cultural issues. Dr. Jordan Peterson appeared so we snuck into one of his classes at the University of Toronto and questioned him on the topics of Jung, Dawkins and archetypes. I released “Jordan Peterson’s Top 10 Truths,” Sam Harris invites Jordan back onto his podcast on the same day, then they go on tour together, first city: Vancouver.
Aug 3, 2023 I received a message from a childhood training partner. Master Sun passed away and left something behind for me. It was my black belt, found in his storage unit.
Sep 1, 2023 I would frequent a local coffee shop and befriended a theologian. Ambrose was completing his PhD in Old Testament studies and decided to include me in his dissertation.
Mar 15, 2025 I published my debut book “The Key to Life: In 365 Quotes.” On the same day, Kanye’s “Key to Life” song was released. We've both arrived here without each other's knowledge. [↗] [↗]
May 8, 2025 The first American pope, Chicago's Robert Francis Prevost was named Pope Leo XIV. Notice the numbers 8, 5 and 14.



March 15, 2025


"The Key to Life: In 365 Quotes" is the greatest handguide for navigating the modern world and the closest thing we have to Magic right now. Inside, you will discover profound and ancient wisdom from Socrates to Tolstoy and many of the greatest thinkers of the twenty-first century. Each quote is carefully crafted to offer deep insights on a variety of disciplines, including philosophy, psychology, art, literature, politics, science and religion. Whether you're facing challenges or seeking motivation to change your life for the better—this book has got your back.



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