After returning home from a wonderful 4th of July weekend with my family, I decided to pick up some dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. Months had passed since we last enjoyed this delicious Italian restaurant when suddenly my appetite was abruptly interrupted. While picking up our order, my eyes could not help but notice the large flat screen television that was tuned into ESPN. The breaking news headline read “Former NFL quarterback Steve McNair slain”. At first I thought and even hoped it was a mistake; but after flipping through a number of news stations when I got home, I realized what I had hoped to be a rumor was indeed a horrific reality. At 36 years old, one of my former NFL colleagues’ life had been brutally ended; leaving the NFL, his family and the sports world wondering why.

Sadly Steve McNair’s name has been added to an already long list of celebrities that have recently passed away. Although Michael Jackson, Ed McMahon and Farrah Fawcett are clearly the most world renown, the death of Steve McNair has had the greatest effect on my own life. We came from the same generation and were both a part of the elite fraternity of athletes known as the NFL. Although it’s been almost 10 years since I’ve worn an NFL uniform, once a player always a player. The National Football League has indeed lost one of its own.

Even greater than the NFL’s loss, is the loss that has taken place in humanity. When ever a human life is senselessly taken, everyone loses. Lucille McNair lost her son. Mechelle McNair lost her husband. Their children lost their father. The neighborhood in which this atrocious crime was committed lost their sense of safety and security. What about the Nashville community that looked up to Steve as a role model? Will a poor decision on his part cause the community to lose their respect for him? Only time will tell.

Despite all the loss, there is something to be gained. I believe that the key to triumph in any tragedy are the lessons that can be learned. Before we point the finger of judgment at Steve McNair, let’s not forget the countless men and women who have been and are involved in illicit relationships outside of the sacred convent of marriage; that by God’s grace are still alive today. My prayer is that through the loss of one life, other lives can be positively affected. I believe that this tragedy can serve as a wake up call to those that have poorly decided to partake in extramarital relationships. Let us allow this incident to incite a fresh commitment to our marriages, our families and our God.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the McNair family. Let’s not allow a poor decision to tarnish his legacy or let his death be in vain.

Sincerely,

Damon

I recently had an opportunity to support a dear friend of mine as he mourned the loss of his mother. I can only imagine the range of emotions that he is experiencing now and the challenges that lie ahead. It’s in moments like these that allow us to take a sabbatical from the cares of life and focus on what’s really important. Life on this side of eternity is a precious commodity and the passing of a loved one should renew interest in our hearts towards the significant relationships that we have in our lives right now.

Since Mother’s day is quickly approaching, the spotlight is starting to shine on the women who gave us life during, before and after birth. If there is one family member that deserves a standing ovation, it is without question mothers. From the white house to the prison house, we consistently see the products of a mother’s love. Where would our own President and First Lady be without the love, discipline and support of their mothers? How many incarcerated men and woman held onto hope because there was a mother whose prayers out lasted their jail sentences? Married, single, separated or divorced, it was their ingenuity that kept food on the table and perseverance that allowed them to see their children cross the goal lines and graduate with honors. For many families, the mother was the glue that held everyone together. Where I would be without the unconditional love, guidance and support of my own mother, God only knows.

Since my wife and I have recently crossed over into the threshold of parenthood, I now have a deeper appreciation for the multidimensional role that many mothers play on a daily basis. Words like teacher, counselor, doctor, chef, chauffeur and even referee can all be found on the resumes of these hard working women all over the world. Regardless of how you came to be a mother, the role of motherhood is worthy of high honor.

I want to personally thank my wife, along with every woman that has embraced the call to motherhood even when it hasn’t been popular, easy or convenient. If you don’t hear this from anyone else, know that you are loved, celebrated and appreciated.


Damon

Many of us are aware of our country’s significant economic challenges. Joblessness is near an all time high. Companies are searching for ways to “restructure” their organizations by replacing employees with technology or foreign outsourcing. For many, a loss of employment means a loss of income. A loss of income leads to a decrease in spending which in turn has a dramatic effect on the companies that depend on this “spending” to survive.

Recession resonates with everyone in one way or another. I believe however that the greatest impact resides with those who have lost their jobs and benefits. Many are ill-equipped to manage the necessities of life without the assistant of a weekly or bi-weekly paycheck and the “rainy day” that most people were advised to save for has turned into a thunderstorm. For many, their situation seems to be hopeless at best. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

I recently had an opportunity to sit in with a group of people who were in the process of being laid off. It was interesting to see the different reactions that many of them had. To some, losing their job was the end of the world; to others, it was a fresh start and an opportunity to explore something bigger and better. The fear and anxiety that some held was based on the belief this “job” was the best it was ever going to get; it was evident that their current careers had become their comfort zones. I’ve found that most people don’t have a plan B because they think they don’t need it or they are afraid of the change that it would require. Believe me; I know first hand the fear and uncertainty that comes with having to step out into unchartered territory.

When my NFL career ended, I had to make a career change that I honestly was ill-prepared for. Looking back in retrospect, it was the best thing that could have ever happened. The pressure of unemployment propelled me to discover hidden potential that would have otherwise stayed buried under the false hope of extending a season of my life that was over. As long as you hold onto plan A, you will never uncover your God given gifts, talents and abilities. This next chapter in your life can be an awesome opportunity to discover the hidden “you” that our Creator has always destined for you to be!

I want you to know that if you’ve lost your job, it’s not the end of the world but rather a new beginning. As difficult as this period may be for you and your family, it will get better; for Jeremiah 29:11(message bible)  says “ I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.”


Damon

Each year around this time, people begin making what we call “New Year’s Resolutions”. They make a list of all the things they desire to accomplish, etc. before the turn of yet another “New Year”.

Listing our desires and needs is an excellent principle, even a spiritual one; but have you ever thought about making a list of what you can no longer tolerate in your life? Over the years I’ve discovered that it is often the things that we don’t need in our lives that keep us from obtaining what we really do need. As we enter into the New Year, I’ve put together a “No More” list. This is a list of hindrances to your dreams that cannot be carried into 2009.

No More Excuses
One of the greatest hindrances to seeing your desires fulfilled is making excuses. If Barack Obama had used his race as an excuse, he would never have been elected the ‘United States’ first African-American president. Remember you are responsible for the outcome of your life; not circumstances or other people. Make a quality decision right now to get rid of excuses!

No More Procrastination
Procrastination is deferring to tomorrow what should be done today. Those who procrastinate make the dangerous assumption that the same opportunities available today, will be available tomorrow. If you are waiting for all of your circumstances to be perfect before you move forward, that day may never come. The fear of failure and even the fear of success cause many to postpone their plans and miss their moment of greatness. If you are going to do great things in 2009, I recommend you start now.

No More Normal
The world is full of people that are “normal”. They are satisfied with where they are and have no aspirations for anything more in life. Unfortunately no one remembers normal people. If you are going to make a difference in the earth and manifest your desires, you must refuse to live by the status quo. In order to break out of the “normal” life you must first challenge your definition of what “normal” is. For some it’s normal to live in a multi-million dollar home. It’s normal to send their kids to private schools. Why can’t their normal be your normal? Our concept of “normal” is often shaped by our comrades. If you are going to leave the life of the ordinary you must surround yourself with people that are extraordinary. I challenge you in 2009 to visit new places and do new things that expand your idea of “normal”.

I’ve shared with you just a few things on my “No More” list for 2009. I encourage you to create your own list.  There are other items on the list such as “No More Debt” and “No More Prayerlessness” that you can use to initiate your own inventory if you so desire. Whatever you decide to put on your list in 2009, don’t make excuses and don’t procrastinate, just do it!

Damon

This past Thanksgiving was a very special time for my wife and I. It marked the first time in years that we celebrated this holiday at home. This decision was not made out of necessity, nor the economy; but after a long week of meeting the needs of others, we decided to rest and thank God for what he has done, is doing, and will do.

I believe that Thanksgiving was never intended to be a once a year occasion where you eat turkey to the point of explosion and feed a few homeless people that you may never see again until next year. Thanksgiving was intended to be a lifestyle that manifests itself in our actions towards our God, our country, and our families.

I’m reminded of the biblical story of the ten lepers that were healed by Jesus. Ten were healed, but only one came back to give thanks. I believe this ratio of ungratefulness grieves the heart of God. As tough as the times have been economically, you always have something to be thankful for. You may not have everything you want, but God has promised to those that believe in him that he will supply for all of our needs. Did you wake up this morning? Do you have clothes on your back, food to eat and shelter? If need be, take a trip to the hospital or the local jail, you’ll see that you have a lot to be thankful for.

Don’t lose the spirit of this season. It is the heart of gratitude that keeps you grounded in the best and worst of times. Whatever season you find yourself in right now, always remember to give thanks

Damon