53) Jackie Smith

My last entry in the Gratitude to Greats project was from one of the best tight ends of the 70s, the Cardinals’ Jackie Smith. A former track star from my home state of Louisiana, there was so much that this guy could do on the field that made him one of the best at his position.

Here is the letter that Jackie wrote me:

John,

Definitely have my prayers that your condition with cancer is behind you. Sounds like you have done everything you can do. All I can do is support your attitude and your spirit as you (can find? conform?) with your illness.

I am from Louisiana – Kentwood, 90 miles north of New Orleans on Highway 55.

Note to readers from John: Kentwood, Louisiana is also the city Britney Spears grew up in.

I would like to thank the great Jackie Smith for taking the time to offer his two cents of praise. I am pleased to hear more and more people letting me know I am doing things right.