Favre...His Real Impact

March 5, 2008

And in the End...

I can hear the voices of John, Paul, and George as I type that. It is a fantastic Beatles song that does not get enough air time.

As you can imagine (another John Lennon reference) I have my thoughts on Brett Favre's retirement. He has been the one constant over the last 16 years of my life from the months of September thru December. He has given me some very nice memories in my life. Watching the Packer games each Sunday with my parents, brother and sister growing up is something I truly cherish. I remember rushing home from church, listening to the game on the radio as we stopped for Taco Bell. My dad never let the radio turn from AM 620 on our drive as we could have missed something. I learned from my father, Ashley can attest, Packer game on...radio on (if we are not yet in front of the t.v.)

Now my fiance and I have continued the tradtion. Ashley is very estute about football and it is fun discussing the games with her. I love her takes on what should be done or how we are playing. It's a different perspective from mine which is why it's so entertaining.

Brett Favre has allowed me to become very close to a cousin of mine. Three years ago, Jeff and I began talking over the phone about the Packers as I was one of his inside sources since he no longer lived in the state. Since then, we have become great friends and are talks include play/movie ideas, vacations, life, etc. Amazing how this revolves around one man.

Favre has provided me with upsetting times as well...5 int's versus St. Louis, INT versus Philly in playoffs, Favre versus Dallas, NY Giants this year!

My overall take on this subject is this...athletes need to understand and fully appreciate the impact they have on people's lives. Our entertainment schedule revolves around these people who make millions of dollars. I believe that Favre does appreciate the impact he has had on this state, I really do. I feel that if more athletes understood this, society would be better off. They have the ability to help charities, foundations, etc. in their home town but when they are leaving cities every 2-3 years, they lose that bond with the town and their opportunity to help.