A Strong Foundation for a Bright Future

Last Thursday evening, I went to watch my daughter play basketball for her high school. I wore my LSU sweatshirt to the game.

When the game finished, I waited for my daughter by the door to the gym while her coaches talked to the team. A lady with a beautiful smile noticed my LSU sweatshirt. She mentioned that her son goes to LSU. I complimented her on her son's wise decision, but I asked her what prompted him to forego the Hope Scholarship. She told me he played football for LSU. I asked his name, and she told me her son was Anthony Jennings. I gave her an "I'm not worthy" bow, and she laughed softly. We talked a little.

She's about as nice a person as you could meet. She is warm and friendly, and she made me feel very comfortable, like I had just moved into her neighborhood and she was the head of the welcoming committee. She seems like a strong woman with a quiet dignity.

Her freshman daughter walked over in her Marietta High uniform. Her team was about to play. The daughter noticed the LSU sweatshirt and joined in the conversation. She seems like a terrific kid, and she told me how proud she is of her big brother.

I remember when LSU started recruiting Anthony Jennings. I watched some of his games. The kid was a beast on the field, but I particularly liked how he seemed to be a serious-minded and earnest student of the game. He comes across with a mature strength and dignity. He’s going to be a terrific contributor to LSU during his career here, and I feel certain that we will all be proud that he made such a wise decision.

I don’t know Anthony Jennings personally. I’ve never said a word to him. I’ve only watched his games and interviews. But now that I have met part of his family, I feel like I can see a part of why he’s such a good kid. He certainly has an excellent foundation in his family.