A little known fact about me: I love football. I love the strategy of the game and the comraderie of the fans. And even though I am a die-hard New England Patriots fan (and yes, let’s not talk about last week…), I have a lot of respect for many other players and coaches. One of those is the former coach of the Indianapolis Colts, Tony Dungy.
His book, Quiet Strength
All in all, I enjoyed it. Some parts were easier to read than others. I stumbled through the name-heavy parts as well as some of the game play-by-plays. But the life lessons alone were worth the read. So many nuggets of truth. I jotted many of them down; I know they will be helpful as we raise these boys of ours.
Food for thought from the book:
“To whom much is given, much is required–whether it’s privileges, responsibilities, or material items. And if God has given you a lot of ability, I believe you should be held to a higher level of expectation.” –from page 19
During one season, he studied the book of Nehemiah:
“I learned three key truths from Nehemiah. First, Nehemiah’s opportunity came in God’s time, not his own. Second, Nehemiah diligently prepared his mind and his heart so he would be ready when God’s time arrived. Third, Nehemiah needed to be prepared to take on the problems, doubt, and adversity that would come his way both from the outside and from within.” –from page 87
What he expected of his players as a head coach (I love this list for my boys too!):
- “Be a pro.
- Act like a champion.
- Respond to adversity; don’t react.
- Be on time. Being late means either it’s not important to you or you can’t be relied on.
- Execute. Do what you’re supposed to do when you’re supposed to do it. Not almost. All the way. Not most of the time. All of the time.
- Take ownership.
Whatever it takes. No excuses, no explanations.” –page 116
