During Kurt Warner’s speech at his induction into the NFL Hall of Fame, he said,
“. . . which moments would best define me?
I would have said, like most of you, the accomplishments . . .”
I instantly thought of my own defining moments and the one I thought of immediately was my vision loss. I wondered why I didn’t think of a success instead; is it because I’m not rich and famous like Kurt? Because I haven’t done anything spectacular on a world stage? I never had children so I couldn’t claim becoming a parent as the point in time that changed everything for me. But why did I immediately go to the sight situation instead of an accomplishment?
This bothered me for a few days as I thought about his words and what I know of his life. He had some very tough times, so why was he drawn to his “good stuff” when thinking about his legacy?
Finally I realized that our responses weren’t that different. I was interpreting his use of the word “accomplishments” as his time as a professional football player, winning a Super Bowl and going on to,a successful broadcast career after retirement. And he was. too, at face value, I am sure. But I came to understand that overcoming the struggles and hard work and doubts was what made his achievements so important to him as he reflected on his past. As for me, the day I woke up blind was a supremely significant moment. But every second since is what defines me.
