Today is a sad day. The ol Gunslinger, Brett Favre, is retiring, according to most news outlets. The decision came within the last 24 to 48 hours, according to most sources. He can still physically play, but feels the mental strain might be too much if the Packers didn't get to a Super Bowl. Favre owns most QB records in the NFL, and led the Packers to two Super Bowls, winning one and coming close on another. This past season, after rumors of retirement, he led the Packers to the NFC championship game, one step below going back to the Super Bowl. In his 17 years, he has been a multiple MVP, pro bowler...he has done it all.However, I will remember Brett Favre for the intangibles. In an era when QBs were expected to be robotic corporate types, Brett was a gunslinger. He took chances. And he didn't exude a robotic calmness, he had the audacity of a kid and loved the game as one. That joy for the game and for life is sorely missing in most pro sports today, as we either have thug lifers, or corporate shills, or guys hiding what they inject in their butts. Favre was the last of the true guys next door playing football. However, the guys next door didn't have that arm!
Favre was not a perfect man, far from it. He abused alocohol and painkillers, but with the love of his wife and family, he came clean about his addictions and overcame them with a faith borne from his wife. In the following years, he would lose his father, deal with his mom's home being hit by Katrina, and his wife's cancer. Through it all, he worked hard, kept the faith, and showed that true American fighting spirit. And he did it all with style and grace, and that amazing cannon. He was able to turn his life around and was a true success story of redemption through love and faith.
While he did not fully complete the Elway exit, winning a championship, Brett did go out on top. He had one of the finest seasons of his career last year, and set numerous records. When many doubted him, he restored their faith and surpassed all expectations for himself and his team. And he did it all with that trademark "S.E." grin, the one that showed his joy and love for life and the game.
I am saddened, but I understand. Gunslingers always ride off into the sunset, at some time. We always want to keep our legends with us, but they have other fields to conquer. I am sad for myself, and for the game. The NFL was better with Favre than without. However, Brett now gets to spend time with his children he was never able to before and to be with his amazing wife Deanna, who is an inspiration herself. God bless them, and Brett, thanks for the memories.
