If you have never played on a football team—or other team sport—it’s kind of hard to describe the camaraderie that happens. If you participated in band or choir in high school (which I did as well) the group flow of a perfect performance comes close.
But it doesn’t quite match the feeling of brotherhood that is forged from enduring the physical pain of hot summer 2 a days, or the emotional pain of coaches screaming at you for running the wrong route or blocking the wrong gap.
Sports are meaningful because they challenge us to become the individual best version of ourselves....together. It’s a beautiful paradox. Unless they join the military, most guys will spend the rest of their lives chasing that feeling of common bond and purpose.
So it wasn’t surprising at all to see players on the Buffalo Bills openly weeping on the field once they realized what was happening. The bond between teammates goes far beyond a “coworker.”
From millions of dollars being spontaneously donated to Damar Hamlin’s charity overnight, to fans of the opposing team holding a candlelight vigil outside the hospital, what happened last night is a reminder of how good humanity can be.
Football is a catalyst for discovering the best of us—even in the midst of tragedy, that’s worth celebrating.