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Bruce Smith
By John | August 9, 2009
Yesterday, Bruce Smith was inducted into the Pro-Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his excellence as a football player with the Buffalo Bills and the Washington Redskins. Bruce contributed as an athlete and entertainer over a sparkling career, and certainly is deserving of this recognition.
But Bruce’s contribution at yesterday’s induction ceremony may have been even greater than that of his stellar football career. Like most inductees, Bruce thanked many who contributed to his success over his lifetime. But in addition to crediting people, Bruce credited principles - principles he has striven to live by, and principles which also contributed to his success. Among those principles were honesty, integrity, hard work, and the willingness to never give up.
In fact, Bruce told the story of the first time he went out for football as a young teenager. It was hot. Football practice was hard. So, like many teenagers might be inclined to do, Bruce quit. And, that could have been the end of Bruce’s football career. But Bruce had a father who lived by principle, and his father simply told Bruce to “never quit.” He told him verbally, and through his own life example. Perhaps his father realized Bruce had come to a crossroads in his life. Probably, his father had no idea the effect his simple statement would have on his son. But it did. Bruce didn’t quit. Inspired by his father’s words and example, Bruce went on to become one of the best football players to ever play the game.
Yesterday, Bruce accepted the honor bestowed upon him by the Pro-Football Hall of Fame. As one of the true giants of the sports world - a man respected by millions - Bruce revealed the secret of his success. As his father had before him, Bruce told the world, and all of those young athletes aspiring to become a Bruce Smith, the secret of success.
Honesty. Integrity. Hard work. And NEVER quit!
Topics: Commentary |
August 12th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
Very interesting and amusing subject. I read with great pleasure.
August 13th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
I’m interested in your book. Can you add a table of contents or a sample chapter to your website so I can see if I should order it?
Thanks.
August 22nd, 2009 at 10:05 am
ovomipicaf…
Cruel And Unusual Punishments …