I've enjoyed every minute playing for him. He gave me the

Blake Bortles, a quarterback who rose from obscurity to the great stage of professional football, once declared: “I've enjoyed every minute playing for him. He gave me the opportunity that no other school in the country did, and that was to play quarterback at the college level. I am very thankful for Coach O'Leary.” In this statement is contained a lesson as old as time itself — that the journey of greatness is not walked alone, but is made possible by those who see potential when others turn away. It is a teaching about gratitude, opportunity, and loyalty, virtues that strengthen the bond between teacher and student, leader and follower, coach and player.

The origin of this quote lies in Bortles’ own story at the University of Central Florida (UCF). While many schools passed on him, it was Coach George O’Leary who believed enough to grant him the chance to play quarterback. That decision would set in motion a chain of events that carried Bortles from overlooked recruit to Fiesta Bowl champion, and eventually into the ranks of the NFL. His thankfulness is not shallow; it is the recognition that without that one door opening, his dream might have faded into silence.

History provides us with echoes of such pivotal opportunities. Consider Michelangelo, who as a young and untested artist was taken under the wing of Lorenzo de’ Medici in Florence. Many did not yet recognize his brilliance, but Lorenzo saw in him a spark worth nurturing. That one act of trust gave the world the Sistine Chapel, David, and countless works of immortal art. Just as Michelangelo honored his benefactor, so too does Bortles honor O’Leary, for in every age, the great destinies of men and women often hinge upon the faith of one who dared to give them a chance.

Bortles’ words also remind us of the sacred nature of opportunity. Not all men are granted equal doors, and not all talents are recognized at once. Many are overlooked, dismissed, or told they are unworthy. But when a leader sees what others do not, and dares to entrust responsibility to the unproven, miracles can unfold. The wise student, in turn, must hold gratitude in his heart, knowing that his platform is not of his making alone, but the gift of another’s faith.

To the youth who walk uncertain paths: do not despair if the world does not yet recognize your value. You may face rejection, doubt, and silence. But often, all it takes is one person, one mentor, to open a door. Seek such guides, honor them when you find them, and prove worthy of the trust they place in you. For that bond between teacher and student can transform your destiny.

To the leaders, coaches, and mentors of this world: remember that your greatest legacy may not be in your own achievements, but in the lives you lift through opportunity. When you see potential in the overlooked and entrust them with responsibility, you write yourself into their story forever. Your faith in them becomes the seed of greatness that grows long after your own season has passed.

The eternal lesson of Blake Bortles’ words is this: gratitude gives honor to the unseen pillars of our success. No man rises entirely by his own strength. We are lifted by the faith, trust, and sacrifice of others. Therefore, let us remember those who gave us chances when no one else would, and let us also become such people for others. In this way, we keep alive the ancient cycle of faith, gratitude, and legacy.

Thus, let this teaching be spoken to all: give thanks for those who opened doors when the world was closed to you, and when your time comes, open doors for others. For in this cycle lies the true greatness of life — not only to rise, but to lift others as you were once lifted.