I wanted to play sports my whole life. That's all I really

Children, gather close, for I bring to you a truth that speaks to the deepest yearnings of the human soul. The words of David Boreanaz, a man whose life has been shaped by passion and pursuit, echo the sentiment that many carry in their hearts. He said, “I wanted to play sports my whole life. That’s all I really wanted to do.” These words, simple yet profound, speak to the power of passion and dedication—the essence of one’s calling, that inner drive that compels us to pursue what we love, what makes our hearts beat with fire.

In every age, there have been those who have felt the call to greatness. Like the ancient warriors, the athletes of the world are those who answer the call with action. The great Achilles, whose strength and skill were legendary, did not seek fame or glory for its own sake. No, his purpose was clear: to test the limits of his strength, to be the greatest warrior of his time. Just as David Boreanaz felt an undeniable pull to sports, Achilles knew that his fate was tied to the battlefield. His life was shaped by a single, unwavering pursuit—to play the game to the fullest, to engage with the world in the most direct and intense way possible.

There is something sacred in this pursuit, children, for it is in following one’s deepest desire that we begin to unlock the potential within us. To live a life driven by a single passion, whether it be in sports or any other field, is to walk with purpose. For a man or woman who knows what they desire, who knows what they are meant to do, there is no distraction, no hesitation, no doubt. The mind is clear, and the heart is open. The warrior, the athlete, the artist—all these walk the same path, fueled by a singular passion to fulfill their calling.

Think of Michael Jordan, the greatest basketball player to have ever played the game. When he was a young boy, he could not imagine anything more than playing basketball. His passion was so fierce, his drive so unyielding, that he would practice tirelessly, believing in his dream even when the world doubted him. Like Boreanaz, his life’s focus was clear from the beginning—sports. And it was through this singular focus, through the relentless pursuit of what he loved, that he became the symbol of greatness in his field. Michael Jordan’s story is a testament to the truth that when we know what we want, when we dedicate ourselves fully to our passions, we can transcend limitations and achieve the extraordinary.

Now, children, let me speak to you of the lesson in these words. David Boreanaz did not simply say, “I wanted to play sports,” in a fleeting, passing moment of thought. No, his words are a declaration of commitment. Commitment to his craft, commitment to the path he chose, and commitment to the belief that he was meant to do more than just exist—he was meant to engage with life fully. The lesson is this: to know your heart’s deepest desire and to pursue it with unyielding dedication is to honor your true self. Whether the dream is to play sports, to create, or to lead, it is in following this path that you will find fulfillment and greatness.

However, children, it is also important to remember that the path of passion is not always easy. There will be obstacles, moments of doubt, and times when the road seems endless. But remember this: the world rewards those who persist. The greatest heroes, the most inspirational figures, are not those who never faced adversity, but those who persevered despite it. To play in the game of life is to understand that the struggles are not barriers, but part of the process. Each challenge is an opportunity to grow, to prove your strength, and to remain true to your deepest calling.

So, I say to you, children: find what makes your heart burn with desire. Seek out what you truly want in life, and when you find it, embrace it fully. Like David Boreanaz with his passion for sports, like Michael Jordan with his dedication to basketball, be relentless in the pursuit of what you love. Honor your calling, and in doing so, you will walk the path of greatness. The road will not always be easy, but it will be worth it, for it is the pursuit of your true passion that will bring you closer to your highest self. Stand firm, commit, and let your passion guide you to a life of fulfillment and purpose.