Tony Dungy is a man, whom I hope to meet. I just want to shake his hand, and say thank you to him, for being who he is. Most of us when we think of him, see him prowling the sidelines in a Tampa Bay Bucaneers or Indianapolis Colts hat as the Coach, where he did win a Super Bowl a few years back. Coaching in the NFL is one of the world's most stressful positions, and one that will ultimately leave all of them sleep deprived. Here you are with 50+ men, who are making boatloads of money, various ego's, ownership managers with high expectations, and thousands of rabid fans who want nothing but a win. The skill set at the NFL level is unreal. I've had the honor of running with a former NFL player twice my size in weight, and he dusted me like yesterday's breakfast. The press chases you constantly, and as most who watch football know, coaches are more expendable than the players on a team. Its where "the buck stops here."
Often I think of Tony Dungy, because he is a man, who's not only a Hall of Fame coach, but so much more than that. As most know, he retired, and now runs a foundation for father's to become more involved in their children's lives, along with multiple charitable endeavors. He is a TV analyst for NBC sports, and also sponsors mentor programs. His legacy in the NFL is still very much continuing, as his "coaching tree" has blossomed, and he has written several books. Even if you are not a fan of the gridiron, I highly recommend any one of them that he has penned. They are truly beautiful, inspiring, and I love his quote of "Your life is of value, if you have helped another person out." A committed Christian, he upholds those values, and this quote is his way of saying what Jesus said of "Love one another."
Sadly, Tony Dungy's son committed suicide. He openly discusses this, and the pain that it has brought to his entire family. This honesty is so greatly appreciated, because he not only helped me during my darkest of days after Tommy's passing, but I just have a feeling that he's meant so much to other Dad's and Mom's, Grandparents, Uncles, brothers, and sisters, who've been in a similar predicament. A trial and tribulation it is, that no one should have to go through, yet Tony Dungy has been frank by talking about how "he's still grieving." I understand that loud and clear, as I shall always grieve until my last moment on this planet, and like him am saddened, but at the same time must carry on. Also, I believe he is right, about being honest about your pain, and dealing with it so it doesn't become who you are, but rather a part of you that causes you to help others.
Today we went to Tommy's grave, and it as always, was a painful experience. Yet it must be done. His younger brother knows that is where he is, and while he is still too young to understand some aspects of Tommy's life and passing, he is going to know the whole truth, and nothing but that. Each person in this situation has to decide, what is best for their family, if faced with this type of event. Yet I believe firmly in my heart, that Coach Dungy's decision is the right road to take. It is important for parents and other family members, to share with siblings and others, what a child that is no longer with them meant, and still does each and every day. Tommy is still very much a part of our family, and will always be, even though he is in Heaven, and beyond the grasp of the hugs we want to give him so much. Yet one day we know that we shall see him again, although it is a long road, and all of us feel as if we've lived a million lifetimes. However, we are thankful Coach. You've made a difference to us, and you are certainly valuable to our family.
No comments:
Post a Comment