True to the Game

Strength

"Rather be judged by 12, than carried by 6..."

Ice Cube - Steady Mobbin'

Earlier today I was stunned by the news that Steve "Air" McNair was found dead. I saw that I had a new message from Madeleine, but when I read that he had passed, I didn't know what to think? The first thing I thought of was a conversation we had a few days ago, as she reminded me that tomorrow is never promised to us.

Pride

Instead of listing all of his accomplishments, I'd like to remember McNair in my own way. I never met him, or interviewed him for that matter, but a few years ago I was invited to speak at Alcorn State University, in Mississippi. It was my first time in the "deep" south and the only thing I could think of is how things used to be...I'll admit it...as I had a twinge of trepidation, but once I arrived on campus the student body embraced me, and treated me like family.

I can recall walking around the university and embracing the fact that a top NFL quarterback played and excelled at this HBCU. Instead of being in awe, I was in fact inspired by his accomplishments both academically, and athletically.

McNair...gone now, but not forgotten.