There are many rules in football. It is ironic that we live in a world where good morals are not always appreciated; however, football, complete with referees who carry flags in their pockets, has been popular for decades.

Laws, rules and good morals are not always popular, but they are necessary. Since I am writing this article after a superbowl, and my team did not win, I am reflecting on the sport and more importantly, life. My hope is that someone will ponder my conclusions listed below.

1. There is an innate sense in most of us that life should have some rules and those rules should be followed. The fans of one team may get fighting mad, especially after a few beers, if the rules are not followed on the football field;

2. Major injuries, for example, can occur if one player pulls the face mask of another;

3. In order for the football game to proceed, the rules must be followed. There is a sense of order, goals and direction for the football game and for the game of life;

4. In the end, redemption for a player, team or coach, is the best story of all. Most of us cheer harder, when we know the full story of a player who fought his way out of a drug ridden neighborhood and became disciplined enough to play and in some instances, win a football scholarship. The odds are not necessarily in his favor, yet he perseveres;

5. Good morals are essential to society. While no one enjoys being lectured regarding good morals, we all like to see the game of life played fairly. We rejoice when the bad guy is caught and the good guy wins;

What is the pay off for good morals? The pay off comes when you are at the end of your life and can reflect back on any good that you might have done. If you have no money in your pocket on your death bed, it will matter very little to you. The money will not give you comfort, but, hopefully, the people you have loved, cared for and attempted to teach will be with you. That is your big pay off.

Not everyone can be a NFL quarterback but each of us are quarterbacks for our own decisions and plays in life. As we age, our ability to quarterback a healthy life may dissipate. Hopefully, however, when we close our eyes at the end of the game, we will remember we did our best to throw a long beautiful pass towards the field goal. My prayer is that the next generation will catch the pass and understand the need for discipline, rules and good morals.

The football stadium is empty after a super bowl. The winners are enjoying their spoils. At the end of the day, the lucky ones will go home to their families and share love and encouragement with each other. For those of us who attempt to choose good morals, over evil ones, it is not about affluence but integrity and a legacy. Money cannot purchase either one.

Learn more about this author, Meadow Lark.
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