Kujo

As I sit and write this I have tears in my eyes. I am so proud of what the NTHS Lumberjacks have accomplished and even more proud of what my son has accomplished. People who know me know I have a tremendous amount of difficulty promoting myself. I allow my work and my attitude to do that for me. My son has the same attitude. We almost never know when he has been interviewed or when he has won some award until we see or read about it. I heard when he was at Rich Stadium for media day one reporter was heard to say “He would have sat through the entire interview without saying a word.” This is emblematic of Stephen’s humility. Others might look at this as a weakness. Others might say that if you don’t go out everyday and tirelessly promote yourself you’ll never get ahead. I happen to disagree. Sure, you need to promote yourself but when you do it in such a way to drone out those around you people tend not to listen.

It is easy for individuals to loudly praise their achievements but it is my belief it is more important to have one’s accomplishments speak for themselves. Watching Stephen reminds of the importance of humility. Watching Stephen reminds me of the importance to know what one is capable of accomplishing and to simply go out and do one’s job; to accomplish one’s goals…quietly and without fanfare.

Stephen does not gloat. He does not point out his accomplishments. He allows his actions, his behaviors to speak for him. It is this voice which speaks more loudly than any other. We found out the day after NT’s win against Lancaster he won “Player of the Game.” He never said anything and when we witnessed his on-field interview we figured it was a result of his on-field accomplishments.

Here’s to those people who go about their day quietly and without need for regard. You will be noticed as your fire will burn brightest. Congratulations ‘Jacks and Congratulations Stephen. Onward to the next goal. Go Jacks!

“I claim to be a simple individual liable to err like any other fellow mortal. I own, however, that I have humility enough to confess my errors and to retrace my steps.” -Mahatma Gandhi