More than a football player

Brett and I were born a month a part and have never met.  So much of our lives have paralleled one another.  My father died a year before Brett's did.  When the news broke that his father died and there was speculation Brett wouldn't play.  I knew he would play.  He had to.  Living vicariously through him, he gave a tribute to his father in that game on Monday Night.  It was the kind of tribute I wish I could have given my father.  On a national stage, with everyone in the country watching.  

His struggles with alcohol.  His marrage in jeopardy.  I'm not proud to say it, but I was there.  We both chose our families over alcohol.  He just did it in front of the whole world.  

Cancer, family tragedies, conflicts with co-workers.  All played out in public.  Mine played out at home.  He just put on his hard hat and grabbed his lunch pale and went to work.  

I relate to Brett Favre on a different level than as just a football player.  His super human feats on the field were amazing.  But maybe 5 guys in history could do those things.  He's more than a football player to me because he has lived his life in the public eye the way I would hope to have done it.  Puting family first.  Working hard and not missing a game.  Living with enthusiasm.  Taking responsibility for his actions and always trying to get better.  I like Brett because of the values he displays.  

Enjoy your life Brett.  You've earned it.