This article is an adapted excerpt from Theron’s forthcoming book, Something More: Finding the Joy and Purpose of Life, set to be released around Easter 2018.
Meet Tom
Meet Tom. From the outside looking in, Tom appears to have it all. In his work, he excels. His achievements are unparalleled. At home, he fairs just as well. He is married to what many would consider a supermodel bride. He takes care of his body and is in good health. Certainly, Tom must be fulfilled with his life. Yet, that is not what Tom would tell you. This story is neither fictitious nor unknown. It is the narrative of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.
The One He Can’t Answer
Last year, in a CBS interview, Tom Brady boasted, “I have the answers to the test now.” After coming back from a 3–28 deficit to beat the Atlanta Falcons and earn his fifth Super Bowl win, Brady’s statement shows the confidence in his athletic ability. To any defensive scheme, Brady responds. However, while he may be able to answer defenses, he does find himself unable to answer one question, a question more important than the game of football. The question Tom Brady cannot answer pertains to the game of life. Just listen to Brady’s response in a featured 60 Minutes interview a few years ago when the reporter listed the quarterback’s professional and personal resume in the hopes of eliciting a response from Brady on his many successes. Here is what Brady said, “Why do I have three Super Bowl rings and still think there is something greater out there for me? I mean, maybe a lot of people would say, ‘Hey man, this is what it is.’ I reached my goal, my dream, my life. I think, ‘God, it’s got to be more than this.’” A man who seems to have it all by the world’s standards admits those things do not satisfy. He longs for something more. But what? The reporter inquired as much in his response, “What’s the answer?” to which Brady despairingly said, “I wish I knew.” The quarterback who seems to have all the answers in football cannot seem to answer the most important question of all. His pursuit of an enduring joy and lasting purpose continues. No doubt, even if the Patriots when their sixth Super Bowl with Brady as their quarterback, Tom Brady will still be asking that lingering question and searching for a satisfying answer. Little does he know in his questioning, there is a hint of the answer!
Join the Conversation
What is the answer in Tom Brady’s search for lasting joy in and ultimate purpose of life?
Photo Credit: http://www.latimes.com/sports/nfl/la-sp-brady-suspension-plaschke-20150729-column.html