NFL Star Larry Fitzgerald Delivers Touching McCain Eulogy: We’ll ‘Miss the Blessings of Being in Your Presence’
Arizona Cardinals star wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald spoke at the memorial service for the late Senator John McCain today in Phoenix, and delivered a truly memorable and moving speech.
Fitzgerald celebrated McCain as a friend as well as an inspiration, remarking love not only for family and friends but for fellow man in general, irrespective of their race or party.
Many might wonder what young African-American kid from Minnesota, and a highly decorated war hero turned United States Senator might have in common, he said. Well I’ve thought a few.”
“I’m black, he was white,” he said, drawing laughs from the crowd that continued for each of the things he listed.
“I’m young, he wasn’t so young. He lived with physical limitations brought on by war, I’m a professional athlete. He ran for president, I run out of bounds. He was the epitome of toughness, and I do everything I can to avoid contact. I have flowing locks, and well, he didn’t.”
“How does this unlikely pair become friends” he said. “I’ve asked myself the same question. But you know the answer is: that’s just who he is.”
Fitzgerald said he was grateful for the opportunity head to develop “a meaningful friendship” with Senator McCain.
“And this highlights the very rare and very special qualities of Senator McCain that I came to deeply admire. He didn’t judge individuals based on the color of their skin, their gender, their backgrounds, their political affiliations or their bank accounts. He evaluated them on the merits of their character and the contents of their hearts,” he said. “It was this approach to humanity that made Senator John McCain so respected by countless people around the world, including me.”
Fitzgerald closed by addressing McCain directly, expressing his gratitude and respect.
“Jackie Robinson once said that life is not important, except in the impact it has on other lives. Senator McCain, we will miss the blessings of being in your presence. But we will never forget the impact you had on the world, and more importantly, on each of the livest that you touched. We are all better for having known you. Rest in peace, my friend.”
Watch the full clip above, courtesy of CSPAN.
[Featured image via screengrab]
