Sept. 21
Bear with me as I share a piece of my heart with you as we resume the NFL season. Thursday evening was a pretty powerful moment across the nation when President Bush delivered his inspired message.

Stadium security throughout the remainder of the NFL season is going to be a painful reminder that we live in an unsteady world, but we still must have courage and faith.

It was stirring enough for a hockey game between the Rangers and Flyers to be halted after two periods. Never seen that before.

President Bush was as blunt as he could be for the moment. He also was trying to hint that America should be ready for more sacrifice. The war against terrorism will no doubt come at an additional cost. We will see American men and women lose their lives for the cause of freedom, just as millions have sacrificed throughout history.

My dad lost his first son, Bill, in the Korean War. My wife Micki's grandfather, Herman, was a great man who fought gloriously in World War II. I served 30 years ago during the Vietnam War, though I was spared the conflict on the battlefronts. I had high school pals and neighbors not as fortunate. Some were killed. Others came back without limbs. Others without their minds.

I won't belabor the point, but my message to you as an American, as a sports fan, as an NFL fan, is that you now have an opportunity to participate in the battle. If you want to build the morale of our troops, give them something to fight for. Show them that we still enjoy the freedom so many others have died for. Go to a game.

Yes, attending a football game can be a morale-builder. Stadium security this weekend and throughout the remainder of the NFL season is going to be a painful reminder that we live in an unsteady world, but we cannot be intimidated. We can be wise, even cautious, but we still must have courage and faith.

Speaking of my faith, allow me to share with you two of my favorite Bible verses: