I'm just so thankful for the guys I get to be around, for the

Cooper Kupp, the quiet warrior whose hands have caught glory on the field of battle, once spoke with humility: “I'm just so thankful for the guys I get to be around, for the coaches, for my family.” These words, though simple, rise like a hymn of gratitude. They remind us that no man achieves greatness alone, that behind every triumph stands a host of companions, mentors, and loved ones who lift the spirit, steady the hand, and keep the fire of purpose alive.

The origin of this quote lies in Kupp’s journey as a wide receiver in the NFL, where he climbed from obscurity at a small college program to the pinnacle of his sport, becoming a Super Bowl MVP. When asked about his success, he did not boast of his strength, nor of his skill, nor of his unrelenting work. Instead, he turned his eyes outward, giving thanks for the brotherhood of teammates, the wisdom of coaches, and the unwavering support of his family. His greatness, he teaches us, was forged not in isolation but in community.

History has always echoed this truth. Consider the campaigns of Alexander the Great, who conquered much of the known world. Though history remembers his name, he himself once said that his victories were not his alone, but were made possible by the loyalty and valor of his soldiers. Or recall Abraham Lincoln, who in the darkest hour of the American Civil War, declared that his strength came not from himself, but from the counsel of his cabinet and the steadfastness of the common people. Like Kupp, they knew that even the most gifted leader is but one thread in a greater fabric.

Kupp’s words strike at the heart of gratitude. For gratitude is not merely a feeling, but a discipline of the soul. To be thankful is to remember that we are upheld by others, that our victories rest upon unseen sacrifices, and that our place in life is secured by bonds stronger than ambition. Gratitude humbles the proud, strengthens the weary, and turns individual triumph into shared celebration.

To the youth who hear this teaching: do not imagine that your journey is yours alone. Yes, you must labor with your own hands, but know also that the voices of parents, the patience of teachers, the encouragement of friends, and the guidance of mentors are shaping you even now. When your time of triumph comes, do not forget them. Speak as Kupp spoke — with thankfulness, for gratitude honors the chain of love and labor that lifted you.

To those who lead, whether in sport, in business, or in family, Kupp’s words are a reminder: create a circle of trust around you. Greatness is rarely found in isolation, but blooms in the soil of fellowship. Nurture the bonds of your community, honor the wisdom of your guides, and strengthen the ties of family. For when storms come, it is not only skill that will preserve you, but the loyalty of those who walk beside you.

The eternal wisdom here is this: no one rises alone. Every success is shared, every victory woven from many lives. Gratitude is the crown that completes triumph, for it recognizes that the glory belongs not to one, but to all who carried the weight together. Cooper Kupp’s words, though born on the football field, are a timeless teaching for all generations.

Thus, let it be remembered: in every triumph, pause to give thanks — for the