Tevin Westbrook, tight end for the University of Florida, was facing a mile deep, pitch-black sense of dark after dropping the football in what would have been a game winning play on Saturday. The Gators lost a tough one. Grown men cried and staggered out into the night.
The final score wasn’t the only reason people were crying. In that same game, one of Westbrook’s teammates, wide receiver Latroy Pittman was carried off the field on a stretcher because he couldn’t walk.
The following Tuesday, Westbrook entertained questions from the media about that play and why he dropped the ball. He acknowledged the mistake, but went on to speak about support from his football family, staying focused on the truth, and looking ahead to opportunities to apply lessons learned.
I think he’s thankful for the leadership of his coaches and the support of his peers.
I think he’s thankful for having more games to play.
I know he’s thankful that his friend is out of the hospital with full use of his talented arms and legs.
Ann Voskamp writes, “You defeat your dark when thanksgiving is your default.”
It’s true… just ask Tevin Westbrook.
(Sidenote: My Florida Gators welcome the Missouri Tigers to Gainesville this weekend. If you can tell us why this match might cause some tension in the ranks of Miles & Co, I will send you an awesome thanksgiving themed prize purchased at my favorite dollar store.)
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