Great men plant flags.
In 2001, Mel Siff–one of the greatest minds in physical training–told me, “If you plant a flag, someone’s going to shoot at you.”
And yet, great men continue to climb because the summit is in sight. Others set up camp and critique their route.
“The guy on top of the mountain didn’t fall there.” – Vince Lombardi
Great men sail beyond the map.
Ships that stay at anchor are barely even boats; they’re practically wooden cars. Or maybe Trojan Horses.
“A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.” – William G.T. Shedd
Great men work.
When our contractor bowed out on August 13, Dave Mancuso said, “Go rent a jackhammer.” We worked through the night more than once, and Shane was there with us. Jordan, too. Without them, the Oak wouldn’t have been possible. More than once, Shane built us diagrams at 9pm and knocked down government doors at 8am.
“Few will have the greatness to bend history itself; but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total; of all those acts will be written the history of this generation.” – Robert Kennedy
Great men make great dads.
Just look at Erin and Amy.
They’re looking at Shane.
Greatness is not the achievement of excellence, but the discovery of joy in its pursuit. Thanks, Andi, for the picture; and thanks, Shane, for the example.