Open letter to Damian Lillard......
Mr Lillard,
I am a long time fan of the Trailblazer franchise. I have enjoyed the highs and the lows that come along with being a fan of any sports franchise. As a man of over 60 years old, I can say that the one thing I have gained....is perspective. Sure, there have been many, many moments etched in my brain that make me swell with pride. There were also times that I felt the opposite....even embarrassment. No.....not embarrassment because of the players on the court....but because of the players off the court. You, sir, have never.....I repeat never..... done anything off the court that diminishes this franchise. What you have done is.....work your ass off, train, prepare, and take care of your biggest asset...your NBA body. In addition to doing this, you have done the franchise and it's fanbase the biggest solid ever by openly saying, "I am a Trailblazer". "This is where I want to win a Championship".
I think the most gracious thing you have given the entire fanbase and franchise, is the examples you have set. You have shown the NBA world how to stay with one team. You have shown fans that it's OK to believe in you, because you will be there....and you will always give everything you have. But most importantly, you have been an example to our children...how to carry yourself in a mature, caring, and respectful manner. After a big win, you hold your children in your arms and show the world their importance in your life...when most would soak in the limelight.
Thank you. Thank you for your examples, for your effort, and for every one of your great Blazer moments that are the biggest source of my NBA joy by any single player. With all my being, I hope you retire as a Trailblazer. Regardless of what you hear from the fanbase, know that all your efforts will never diminish in the hearts of those who know.
