Story: Ronnie and His Grit

This video tells the inspiring story of Ronnie Lott, a young boy who learns the value of grit and perseverance. Through his experiences, Ronnie discovers that success is not just about talent but also about dedication and respect for others.

Let me tell you a story about Ronnie Lott. When others gave up, Ronnie did not. Ronnie always did what he set his mind to, dedicated and tough, through and through. As a boy, he bought shoes that were red as fire. The commercials said they'd make him fly higher. So with all of his effort, and all of his might, Ronnie prepared for his very first flight. But all his excitement and thrill didn't last. He jumped through the air, then came crashing down fast. It was after his unfortunate plunk of a tumble that Ronnie felt something inside start to rumble. He sat there a bit, somewhat battered and bruised, and brooded across from his new pair of shoes. "Maybe these shoes won't make me jump high. Maybe it's me, and how hard I try." That rumble in Ronnie is what we call grit, a voice that encouraged him, "Don't ever quit." Grit followed Ronnie as he grew and grew, every time that he played or tried something new. He was skilled at sports, and that helped him thrive. But grit always urged him, "Continue to strive." Grit had a voice that was strong and impactful, but Ronnie still needed to learn to be tactful. Like when his coach said, "Throw as hard as you can," and he knocked someone over. That wasn't the plan. "Respect those around you," his dad would say. Ronnie listened and learned a lot.