There's a lot of talk these days about giving children self-esteem. It's not something you can give; it's something they have to build. Coach Graham worked in a no-coddling zone. Self-esteem? He knew there was really only one way to teach kids how to develop it: You give them something they can't do, they work hard until they find they can do it, and you just keep repeating the process.

And even though I did not reach the National Football League, I sometimes think I got more from pursuing that dream, and not accomplishing it, than I did from many of the ones I did accomplish.

A lot of people want a shortcut. I find the best shortcut is the long way, which is basically two words: work hard.

Don't bail; the best pieces of gold are at the bottom of the barrel of crap.

Be good at something. It makes you valuable. Have something to bring to the table, because that will make you more welcome.

The brick walls are there to stop the people who don't want it badly enough. They are there to stop the other people!

You can always change you plan, but only if you have one.