Monday night I watched the Indianapolis Colts play the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. The national anthem was played by Chris Botti, a trumpet player who gave an unforgettable presentation.

One of my favorite Colts players, Reggie Wayne, was moved to tears during the presentation. I have met Reggie Wayne several times through Make-A-Wish Foundation fund raisers and he is truly a nice guy. We see on the field that he is no-nonsense. He’s not flashy. He’s not mouthy. He just does his job and loves the game.  He portrayed himself the same way during our fundraisers as he sat for pictures with excited fans and sick children who put him up on a pedestal and aspire to be like him.

As we prepare to celebrate Veterans Day next week, I hope you will think about what the national anthem means to you. Watch the link below and really listen to this trumpet.

Watch it here

I am so thankful that we live in a free country. I am so thankful for the national anthem. I am so thankful that Reggie Wayne with tears in his eyes, reminded me that is was more than just a game on Monday night. It was a reminder of how great of a country we live in.

Thank you, Reggie for your emotion.

Thank you, Chris Botti for your wonderful presentation.

Thank you, Veterans for all of your sacrifices – including ones that allow us to be able to play the national anthem on Monday Night Football!