Friday; May 13

Alex Karas was a man of many hats. He was an actor/entertainment personality, a professional football player and … many people may not know it, but a writer as well. Karas gained popularity as a lineman in the NFL when toughness was the name of the game. There may have been a bit of finesse in some of the glamour positions, but when it came to the guys in the trenches, it was a man’s-man’s game. However, if you do much digging into his post-playing years, you’ll find a different side to the guy. The other day I came across a quote, “It takes more courage to reveal insecurities than to hide them, more strength to relate to people than to dominate them, more ‘manhood’ to abide by thought-out principles than blind reflex. Tough is in the soul and spirit, not in muscles and an immature mind.”. Wow, that doesn’t sound like a 20th Century lineman, does it!

It is easy to criticize modern society, but I believe that – in some ways – we are more advanced than we were early in my life. We have come to realize that our minds must work in cooperation with our muscles and our emotions can co-exist with our intellect. Success is found by blending the multiple aspects of our lives. There is value in being strong, but real power comes from appropriately applied wisdom.

I do miss some aspects of old school football, but I am thankful for the advancements we have made in understanding who we are. Let’s continue to grow – not just in stature but in favor with God and man as well.

Think About It!

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