How will people remember you when you die? Will they call you a "legend?" And if they do, why? On Sunday, my Dad lost his valiant battle with cancer. Since then, many have reached out to share their condolences and how he touched their lives, but one tribute stands out as noteworthy. It's this post on the Bucknell University football team's Instagram. While the post itself reflects his dedication to the team, the comments, along with a number of heartfelt handwritten notes from players, are what caused me to pause: "Rest in Peace to a legend." "Rest in Peace, absolute legend." Yes, he loved Bucknell football, and yes, in 1960, he was a quarterback on Bucknell's Lambert Cup-winning team, but to be considered a "legend" by so many young men? Why? I realized it was because he consistently showed up. For more than twenty years, after he retired to Lewisburg, he showed up to every game and practice he could, rain or shine, win or lose. He showed up for the coaches and their families. He showed up for the team as a whole, but also for each player as an individual. He loved to get to know them and cheer them on, both on and off the field. Year in and year out, even when it became harder and harder for him to muster the strength to be there...he'd show up with a smile, a word of encouragement, and wisdom when asked. What kept him going? His core belief that team-based athletics teach the lessons that build young people into the best adults they can be. He loved playing his small part in that process. For that, he is remembered as a "legend" by many of the young men for whom he was present. What do you believe in enough, either professionally or personally, to show up, day in and day out, win or lose, rain or shine so much so that maybe you become a "legend" to someone you touch in the process? It's a question I am pondering. Rest in peace, Dad. You were a legend to me. #leadership #legacy #love
Thank you for sharing your Dad with us. I'm honored to know him through your beautiful post. Thinking of you and yours, Cali. Such a tough loss.
May his memory be a blessing. What an interesting and impactful life lived.
This is beautiful Cali. Continuing to send lots of love your way. XO
Team based athletics or clubs for those not sports minded, provides the opportunity to grow so many skills that will carry through their adult lives. It certainly did that for me and my daughters. Your father truly sounds like a legend.
So very sorry for your loss ??. Thinking of you and sending you hugs. May you cherish your memories of life with him forever. ??
Doug was a brilliant man and dedicated Bucknell alum. Condolences to Cali and the Bucknell community. ??
My deepest condolences, Cali. Sending you much love. 'Ray Bucknell!
CEO at Work Forward | advisor, speaker & bestselling author | startup CEO, Google, Slack | Forbes' Future of Work 50
9 个月He sounds like an amazing person, thinking of you Cali.