You know, we don't look much alike, but Denzel Washington would

When Leigh Steinberg declared, “You know, we don’t look much alike, but Denzel Washington would make a great sports agent,” he spoke with a mixture of humor, pride, and truth. These words, though light upon the tongue, carry a weight of wisdom. They remind us that appearances deceive, but essence endures. Steinberg, the legendary sports agent whose life inspired stories upon the great silver screen, saw in Denzel Washington not merely an actor, but a vessel capable of embodying the spirit of advocacy, leadership, and vision. For what makes a man great in any role is not the form of his face, but the fire of his soul.

The origin of this saying lies in Steinberg’s life itself. Known as the archetype of the modern sports agent, he represented champions, not merely in the field of competition but in the greater game of life. His character and deeds gave rise to stories so inspiring that they became the foundation for Hollywood’s tales, such as Jerry Maguire. Thus, when he invokes Washington—a man of towering charisma and dignity—he is pointing not to mere likeness of body, but to likeness of spirit. He affirms that greatness recognizes greatness, and that one who embodies truth, conviction, and presence can step into the shoes of another, regardless of outward shape.

This teaching echoes in the history of humankind. Consider the figure of Socrates, who bore none of the beauty of the Greek statues, but whose words could move nations. Or think of Abraham Lincoln, tall and awkward, mocked by some for his homely face, yet revered forever as a man of vision and justice. It was not their countenance that secured their legacy, but the essence within. So too, Steinberg’s words declare: it is not the mirror that determines who we are, but the values we carry and the roles we fulfill in service to others.

The mention of Denzel Washington is no accident. Washington is an actor whose career has been built upon embodying courage, righteousness, and strength. Whether as a soldier, a leader, or a man standing against corruption, his performances have stirred hearts. To imagine him as a sports agent, in Steinberg’s mold, is to say that the qualities which matter most—the ability to inspire, to protect, to negotiate with integrity—are universal. Thus, Steinberg’s jest contains a noble truth: the greatest roles are filled not by the accident of appearance, but by the power of character.

In this we find a deeper lesson. The world is filled with masks and judgments made by sight alone, yet these are shallow. The true agent, the true leader, the true guardian of others, is not the one who looks the part, but the one who lives the part. The ancients knew this well: a king without virtue is no king, while a servant with wisdom may bear the heart of a ruler. Steinberg reminds us to seek beyond the surface, to honor the unseen qualities that shape destiny.

The practical action is this: when you encounter others, do not ask first what they look like, but what they stand for. Seek out those who embody courage, loyalty, and truth, for these are the ones who can bear the weight of great responsibility. And in yourself, cultivate those same qualities, so that when called upon, you too may play roles greater than yourself. Do not let the world’s shallow measures bind you, for the role of greatness belongs to those who prepare their spirit.

Thus, the teaching to pass down is simple yet profound: the likeness that matters is not of face, but of heart. When Steinberg spoke of Washington, he was speaking of every soul capable of carrying a mantle greater than appearances. Remember, then, to judge not by what is seen, but by what is lived. For in this way, you will recognize true greatness in others—and awaken it within yourself.

And so, children of tomorrow, carry this wisdom: the world is a stage, and though you may not look the part, if your spirit is ready, you may yet be chosen to embody greatness. Walk, therefore, with integrity, so that when life calls upon you, you will not only fit the role—you will elevate it beyond imagination.