Why I’m Writing
I was sitting at home one day watching ESPN and the Rashaan Salaam E:60 preview came on.
Like many people, I had heard about him because of his greatness on the football field and I always wondered what happened. And then I read his story. And then I watched his story. I know that an article or film cannot do justice to one’s life. Only that person can capture his true being and there are questions that will forever be a mystery. But I remember pausing midway through the article and taking a deep breath. I was realizing how much I resonated not with his football career, but with his concealment of pain. The stories of those closest to him painted an alarming resemblance of my reality.
This blog is just a channel for me to release my true expression because it helps. I’ve done a lot great things in my life and have been very blessed to be surrounded by great influences. I’ve also done a lot of shit in my life I’m not proud of. This blog will be a compilation of what I’ve learned by looking in the mirror and being honest with myself. Sometimes it comes out as poetry and other times it’s just a piece of advice I think could be helpful. Feel free to share with whoever you feel could benefit and leave comments if you’d like.
I want to thank my family, friends and supporters for your unconditional love. I want to give a special shout out to my ladies. My mom, Yolanda. Your example is why I stand with dignity. My sister, thank you for being my best friend. My dog mocha. Thanks for teaching me the importance of being present. And my wife Miranda. Thank you for loving me even when I don’t love myself.
Below is a clip of the E60 preview because I couldn’t find the whole video. I’ve also attached a link to the story Sports Illustrated wrote. I appreciate the Salaam family being so transparent with the world and allowing us a glimpse into his life. His story saved me. May God rest his soul peacefully.
June 25, 2020 @ 7:17 pm
You have been called to do great things for this world. Never second guess the path God has put you on. You will forever be one of my favorite people.
June 26, 2020 @ 3:04 pm
Thanks Jeremy. I really do appreciate it.
June 26, 2020 @ 10:12 am
This was a tough story to read.
Marcus, what do you feel is needed in the world of athletics and even parenting young people to help best prepare for life’s disappointments? At times I feel like some individuals are predestined to feel highs and lows more deeply than others. Perhaps we each have different levels of mental illness/awareness that causes the depth of our feelings. I wonder if there is some internal mechanism that enable some to cope better? Can these things be taught? Is it nature vs nurture?
I don’t have the answers but I sure wish I did.
I don’t want to sound dismal. We all have struggles of some type. I believe life, like relationships, is a roller coaster of ups and downs. Someone once told me that we are either coming out of or going into some type of crisis. Scary thought. I didn’t understand it at the time. I think they wanted me to understand that we shouldn’t rest on our laurels or dwell in our defeats. I do know that if we stay the course through the downs we will ride back up and enjoy the highs. Yet, some of us might need greater support along that journey. I applaud your bravery and desire to learn, share, and help others while also grow personally in your journey. God Bless you as you ride life’s roller coaster. God Bless us all.
June 26, 2020 @ 3:52 pm
You bring up some very important points here. I completely agree that certain predispositions can almost predict how someones life will end up. Unfortunately. Its powerful what you mention about crisis in our lives. It proves that life is suffering and we only have control over our responses. Adopting this attitude allows us to accept our fate with its flaws and all. Key word is accept. Preparing our young people is our greatest task so we must empower, enable, and encourage them to see the immense growth opportunities that come from life’s obstacles. Its very difficult to see this when we’re in the midst of our trials but, giving our suffering meaning redirects that charged energy. Rashaan’s story in particular is very complicated because of all the variables that come with stardom. I resonate with his sense of purposelessness in life after the game is over. Devoting time to self awareness is a must when the game is over or you’re liable to never find who you are. Hope this answers some of your question. Thanks for reading. ML
June 26, 2020 @ 10:49 am
Marcus you are an inspiration and motivation to myself and others. You were a hero in USC football, but football is not everything. As a human being you are even more a positive role model to youth to humanity. May God continue to bless you and your family and mission
June 26, 2020 @ 3:53 pm
That means a lot. I really appreciate you sharing that. God bless you and your family.
June 26, 2020 @ 6:05 pm
The Best Thing About Carolina Football EVER: Marcus Lattimore THE MAN. No comparison.
June 28, 2020 @ 4:31 pm
Wow. That’s humbling to hear. Thank you.
June 27, 2020 @ 12:13 pm
You are truly amazing and an inspiration, Marcus! Thank you for your honestly and the way in which you live your life. You inspire us to be better. Aaron and I love you and Miranda so much! Keep going!
June 28, 2020 @ 4:30 pm
Erin,
Without your influence in my life I wouldn’t have the courage I have today. Love you.
July 1, 2020 @ 9:34 pm
You are my heart: http://clickfrm.com/z3ph
July 2, 2020 @ 2:18 pm
I’m glad that you found it relatable. We’re not alone.