I can’t begin to thank all of the people who have influenced me for the better on this amazing journey. My family, however, deserves special mention for their support, encouragement, and love.
To my wife, Sherice. Thank you for being who you are and for understanding who I am. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for us in the years ahead. I love you.
To my son Taylor. I admire the young man you’ve become and look forward to seeing you grow even more. I’m also looking forward to those grandkids—after you get married, of course!
To my daughter Timon. You’ve entered that pivotal time of facing life-altering decisions. I know you’ll make good ones—but when you’re in doubt, please let this book be a guide. It’s as much for you as it is for your brothers.
To my daughter Tamar. You have so much potential. Daddy just wants you to grow up to be the wonderful young lady you’re meant to be and to keep God close to your heart.
To my son Timothy. Little man, you’re the man of our house when I leave. I hope this book helps you become the man of your own house one day.
To Tish, who I’m glad to have as part of our family. Even though some things in life don’t make sense, always remember that God is taking care of you and has a tremendous plan for your life.
To my mother, Josephine Brown. Mama, thank you for being such an inspiration in my life. You mean so much to me. I would not be where I am today without you.
To my sisters and brother: Joyce, Ann, Gwen, Kathy, and Wayne. Thank you for being true family instead of fans. You’ll never know how much that has meant to me.
To my pastor, Lafayette Whitley. You’ve always talked to me and taught me from the same point of view. Thank you for being my pastor instead of my pal. You are my spiritual father on earth.
To all my extended family, friends, teammates, coaches and staff, and fans in Raider Nation and elsewhere. You’re a part of my life that will always be appreciated and never forgotten.
This book also would not have been possible without the efforts of a few special people.
To Jim Lund, my collaborator. It’s been an incredible experience, man. Thank you for your talent in bringing my story to life.
To Joel Kneedler, my agent and Raiders fan extraordinaire, and Debbie Wickwire, my editor and fellow Texan. Thank you for seeing the vision and making that vision a reality.
To John Heisler and Michael Bertsch at Notre Dame, Will Kiss at the Raiders, Brian Curtis, and everyone on the team at Thomas Nelson for their valuable contributions.
Finally, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to serve Him and join His eternal family. This is all for You.