Belichick, his hero

ABE LINCOLN is my main hero, but Bill Belichick is not far behind. Why? The reasons are several, but there are two in particular. First, in an age of uncertainty, high anxiety, and belligerent dialogue, the New England Patriots’ coach is a study in stoic calm. “It is what is’’ has become my mantra, though I will never live it out as consistently as he does. Second, in an age when others’ judgments of us take precedence, Belichick remains impervious to criticism. Didn’t draft a pass rusher? Threw on fourth down? Benched Wes Welker for the start of a playoff game? It all passes over his head like so much high-altitude wind. His game is his game, and I am reminded every day to focus on my own.