Diary Series: Rob O'Driscoll, Assoc. Head Coach - James Madison ('The True Meaning of Thanksgiving')

It’s Thanksgiving Week, and many of us often look forward to spending time with loved ones and look forward to a delicious - often large - meal, and watching football and college basketball on television.  I know this is a basketball related post, and I am supposed to write about something unique to our team.  This first posting of the year, however, I want to take the time and send a message to everyone: be thankful.  Be thankful for all that you have.

Here at JMU, our community has been devastated in the last two weeks.  Within a span of 10 days, we have lost three lives, two students and a high ranking official.  Each of the deaths was a separate incident.  Each of the deaths was very sudden. Each of the deaths was very tragic.  Our president sent out an email to all faculty, staff, and students which very appropriately consoled everyone, and at the same time encouraged everyone to appreciate all that they have.  Then, last week, we hear about the tragedy at Oklahoma State. 

I first want to say that my thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of all those who have passed away.  These few incidents aren’t obviously the only tragedies to happen in the last few weeks, and I know that many of you are mourning people close to you as well, in addition to those that I have mentioned above.  I also want to say that many of us, myself included, get caught up in the daily routine of life, and often don’t take the time to appreciate all that we have.  While we cannot bring back those that have passed, we can keep alive their memories and their spirit.  For those of us that are fortunate to still be here on earth, please take the time and let those people close to you know they are appreciated.  I personally want to thank my wife, Sue, my parents, and all my family and friends for all that they mean to me, and everything they have done for me.  I love you all with all my heart.

All of us who are involved in college basketball, whether we be coaches, players, administrators, or fans, are lucky.  We have the opportunity to have a great college basketball season, one that has just gotten underway.  As all of us celebrate Thanksgiving in our own way, let us remember the true definition of the word and make sure we take the time out to Give Thanks.  I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!

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