"Thanks Zap"

I don’t think it’s being unreasonable to believe each of us has moments that brand our bones: those moments where elation or disappointment reign are snapshots from the journey defining our lives.

For me one of those moments was late in 1983. I was living in Denver, Colorado and drifting like a ship without sail or rudder. I didn’t like myself much that day while plopped on the couch of a modest apartment and watching rookie John Elway lead the Broncos to a thrilling win over the Baltimore Colts. A team that had drafted, but been spurned by Elway, being the first victim of the rifle-armed quarterback’s come-from-behind magic that is one of many attributes of his Hall-of-Fame career.

On that fateful day, I was on the couch watching a Denver sports anchor, after the rally, reporting live from a joyous Broncos’ locker room. I liked his style, passion and knowledge. I had an epiphany: “I wanna do what he’s doing. I wanna be a sportscaster like Ron Zappolo.”

That thought inspired me to take the necessary steps to return to my alma mater, Mizzou, for a master’s degree in journalism. The goal: become a sportscaster and return to my athletic roots.

More than a quarter century later, that goal, inspired by someone else’s example, is something remembered like yesterday. It takes my brain to this: how beautiful and beneficial it is to remember others who inspire us to be our best? To, as I like to say whenever blessed to encourage others with a Pep Talk, be “joyful for the blessings.”

Imagine - home, work and elsewhere – marinating in the physical, emotional and spiritual ingredients comprising those who inspire us to play like champions? Just me, and I know I’m just a simple dude from Missouri, but I like our odds of living a life that honors, nurtures and adds value wherever we roam.

The Boston native had that type of influence of my life. Occasionally I mention this to the man who set the standard for Denver sportscasters before transforming into an equally talented news anchor in the Mile High City. He smiles, shrugs and suggests, “Ah Mac, you’re too kind.”

No Zap, few in life have given me a greater gift than the encouragement that branded my bones that late-in-the-year 1983 date and changed my life, for the better. This week let’s, in thoughts, words and actions: “Be what Zap was for Mac.” Our example may help another become superior to their former self. Is there a greater honor?

Thanks, Zap.