To: Football

After the passing of Kobe Bryant just a few days ago, I came across his Oscar award winning short film entitled “Dear Basketball” – which, you can watch here. It was so perfectly done, and it made me think about what I would write if I were to pen a letter to football (soccer). I just started writing, and I wanted to have it documented here. So, here goes…

To: Football 

[Inspired by Kobe Bryant]

The first time we met, I knew you were different. At just five years old, I knew you were so much different than anyone else I knew. It was love at first touch.

Throughout the years that followed that first encounter, you would end up teaching me so much about life and about myself. The traits that came from our time together run through my veins every day, and are at the core of who I am as a human being.

Humility, respect, discipline, perseverance, gratitude, and the value of hard work— you gave me all of this, and more.

When my body began to fail me and I knew it was time to hang up my boots, you lingered in my head. It seemed like you were playing games with me- I even resented you for a time. I wanted to write you off, cut you off- cold turkey. But, you wouldn’t let me go. Instead, you stayed and you waited so patiently for me.

The battle scars you honored me with became reminders of a life full-lived. They reminded me of a feeling that my life wasn’t complete without. I couldn’t be angry with you anymore. After all, most good things do end at some point. Don’t they?

Or, do they?

It is the infinitely unfinished business we have together that moves me forward and pushes me to stay with you. Although our relationship has evolved and changed, you will always be my first love.

Thank you for the gifts you so effortlessly gave, and thank you for not letting me go. I am eternally grateful for every moment we spend together.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you- forever.

Always yours: #14