Inspiration and Hope

I find it very interesting, even amazing, how an event can bring back powerful memories and emotions from the past.  It is funny how the brain works in this way:  I don't even know my wife's cell phone number, but I was reminded yesterday of and event and a speech - both involving North Carolina State's Jim Valvano.

Americans love underdogs, and the 1983 North Carolina State were THE underdog of the 1983 NCAA (College) Basketball tournament.  Known as the Cardiac Pack, having won 7 of their 9 games while trailing in the last minute of the game, they were pitted in the final against a Houston team that included 2 future NBA legends Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler.

With a desperate last second shot (which fell short) and the catch and dunk, NC State won the game and the tournament.  The video of a passionate Jim Valvano, known as Jimmy V, running on the court, looking for someone to celebrate with is burned in the hearts of just about every (US) sportsfan.

10 years later, battling bone cancer, Jimmy V's speech of hope is one of great inspiration and passio.  The video below is his full 11 minute speech.  While many of the people and references may be difficult for the non US audience to follow, please take the 11 minutes time to see and hear his passion and spirit.

His famous speech ends with these words, "Cancer can take away all of my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul. And those three things are going to carry on forever. I thank you and God bless you all."