I just read a great article about Tom Brady, New England Patriot quarterback extraordinaire, and the most profound mentor of his life, a man named Greg Harden. Mr. Harden was a quiet assistant on the sidelines when Tom was at Michigan State. He helped the young Tom, who had talent and confidence, yet self doubts, find the belief inside himself that he should be the starting quarterback for the college team. He also helped him know that he had to be better and better prepared than everyone else to earn that spot.

Tom has now at his still young age achieved tremendous athletic success, fame and fortune, and he still considers Mr. Harden to be one of the most important people in his life. One thing that impressed me as a native New Englander is Tom’s amazing focus, confidence, leadership and toughness on the field. He was the backup quarterback until starter Drew Bledsoe was seriously injured, and Tom stepped into the starting position with poise, presence and fantastic ability that seemed to almost come out of nowhere. God, was this guy ready to play football and lead his team!

Now reading this story I understand more where all those qualities came from. Clearly Tom had reserves of confidence and enthusiasm that surprised a lot of people. Supposed football pundits said Tom didn’t have much of an arm, wasn’t big enough to last, etc. etc. Are you kidding me? He is an incredible passer, and I don’t know of anyone who plays the game with more presence and sheer love of playing. He stands in the pocket longer and more firmly than almost every other quarterback around. What struck me especially, though, in his early years as the Patriot’s starting quarterback, was his innocent love of the game and his team’s new success. He had a ball sharing the joy with the team.

This piece is really about honoring Greg Harden, though, and anyone who inspires and guides like he does. There is a man named Joe Sabah who is quite the expert in helping people get interviewed on radio. He asks the question, “Are you singing the song you came to sing?” What a great line, Joe. Greg Harden is singing his song, and helping others sing.