My father recently gave me a copy of Tony Dungy's new biography Quiet Strength. I think it's difficult not to like Dungy, Payton Manning, and the Indianapolis Colts. After reading this book, I'm a fan of the Colts.
The book recounts Dungy's childhood, parents, and of course, football. Dungy astounded me with his continual emphasis to put God first. Let's be honest, for Dungy that means putting God first in football coaching. Page after page, though, I realized that he was aware of the low value that football has, but even so, God is the God of all things and demands glory in all things. Dungy exemplifies this truth in the way he leads his life.
In a day that sports presents so much drama, one may question whether or not a ESPN is a soap opera or a news network. This man brings integrity and character to the areana in a much needed way. Many football players and coaches do many great things in their community like purchasing homes for single mothers (Warrick Dunn), the Indianapolis Colts' head coach spearheaded the organization All Pro Dad; "All Pro Dad is Family First's innovative program helping men to be better fathers." His coaching imperatives to his players and coaching staff consist in telling them to spend time with their families.
The striking characteristic that is on every page of the book is Dungy's dependence on God. This dependence was never more needed when his son committed suicide two seasons ago. I can't imagine hearing those words as a father. He asserts that while he'll never move out of the grieving cycle, but he knows that God is working for the good of those that love Him. At the same time, he's not asking why, rather he's asking what does God want Him to learn from this and how can he help others.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading through Dungy's life and am thankful to the Lord for the way that He has used him and will continue to use him. Even so, I'm thankful for my dad who passed this book onto me and who continues to love me and bless me through his words and actions everyday of my adult life.
2 comments:
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I just finished reading the book myself and thought it was fabulous. What a Godly example Mr. Dungy is.
Quite honestly I am a Chicago Bears fan and I am glad the Colts won the superbowl because I respect Tony Dungy so much. The book was an inspiration to me.
One of the principles of the book I liked so much was Dungy's resolve to stick with the plan and not change things but just try to do them better.
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