Sept. 17
Let me share some reflections from the past weekend...

I was so touched and brought to tears watching all of our leaders gather at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., on the National Day of Prayer and Remembrance. It was touching to hear Rev. Billy Graham speak about the rejuvenated spirit that has now taken place across America.

		A real hero is a person who lays down his life trying to save someone else.

It was emotional to see the funeral for Father Mike of New York. I only wish I had a chance to meet him; he seemed like everyone's friend, a compassionate, caring man who gave up his life.

When we talk about heroes -- and often we relate to athletes in that fashion -- we sometimes forget what that word really means. Sure, it's easy to get excited about someone who scores a touchdown or hits a home run or dunks a basketball. As fans, it's fun to enjoy the achievements of Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire and Alex Rodriguez.

But a real hero is a person who lays down his life trying to save someone else. That equates to the New York City firefighters and policemen, the volunteers and rescue workers -- they have battled and battled, attempting to save others. Many lives were lost.

In looking at this unbelievable tragedy that has hit our nation, I know I have grown up with a love for people. Now, like many other Americans, I have developed a feeling of anger and hate when I hear the name Osama bin Laden.

I know that it will not solve the entire terrorist problem when bin Laden is captured. It would be a head start, breaking the spirit of his organization. Obviously, it must be done.

It was touching watching our president, hugging a firefighter, encouraging people, saying how America will unite and be stronger than ever. It was great to see his leadership skills and then to hear everyone -- the firefighters, rescue workers, policemen, volunteers, doctors, construction workers -- all chanting, "USA, USA!"

If that didn't send goose bumps up your body, nothing will! And I have never been prouder to be an American than when I heard our congressmen and senators singing "God Bless America."

When I went to church on Sunday in Gainesville, Fla., it was overflowing. I imagine that took place across America in synagogues, churches, parishes.

I tried to buy an American flag in three places and they were sold out. There is a patriotic spirit now that has really gripped our nation.

When you talk about leaders, in sports you think of great coaches like Vince Lombardi. Great coaches motivate and inspire their teams to the winner's circle. Leadership comes in time of need, and New York's Rudy Guiliani has shown an incredible ability. So has President George W. Bush.

Whether you are a fan of these men or not, the bottom line is that leadership skills are tested in adverse times. They have come through, standing as tall as can be.

America will go on, stronger than ever. It would be great to see us rebuild the World Trade Center bigger and better than ever. That would send a message to those who have such hate in their heart. They are envious of the freedoms we have here in America.

It is hard to believe some people have that much hatred. But they can't paralyze our nation.