In the past year, I have stood in dozens of locker rooms, from holding back tears in Houston after a national championship loss to holding back laughs in Charlotte when Cam Newton waltzed around singing tunes. I have spent a summer in the nation’s capital working for a sports agency, from holding back screams when Larry Bird was on the phone to holding back screams (again) in DC traffic. I have moved into a house (goodbye dorms), I have seen my favorite bands, I have read too many books, and I have loved every minute.

And you’ve been there for it all. A year ago on this day I bought davidrallenjr.com, and I never imagined the stories I would be able to tell.

I have mourned Grantland, reminsiced about granddaddy, celebrated my beautiful parents, and cried about the Braves (happens more often than you think).

I have written poetry, discussed my favorite lyrics, remembered those who inspired me, and remembered my Father, who died for me.

I have loved my dogs, my siblings, my friends (and our home), my church , and yes, I told you what words mean the most to me.

And you have listened. Somehow, 8,981 of you have read one of these stories. And for that I am forever thankful.

I do not know what my life will be like on November 1st, in 2017, but I will do my very best to ‘act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly’ (Micah 6:8), and I’ve got a funny feeling we’ll all be just fine.

-DA

Love the Lord.
Love the world. Work for nothing.
Take all that you have and be poor.
Love someone who does not deserve it.

-Wendell Berry