I imagine that most of us have been asked the question at some point, "If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would you choose and why?" It's a common discussion starter at parties or to pass time on long car trips. More often than not, historical figures like Jesus Christ and Gandhi make the list, as well as more personal favorites like Grandma and an inspirational high school soccer coach.

I would like to offer a twist to the original question.

In my three publi...