Truth be told, I am not a fan of college football. However, hearing the news of Joe Paterno's death left me with a heavy heart. I am not alone. While some of us might not be "fans" of Penn State, we have learned things about "JoePa" that we otherwise would never have taken the time to learn.
He was fired after 46 years at Penn State. Everyone associated Penn State with Joe Paterno, even those of us who weren't necessarily "fans". There was no wrongdoing, he reported the incident immediately. As always, he did his job. He can not be held accountable for the negligence of those who didn't.
We have learned over the past few months who Joe Paterno really was. He was a father , a son, a husband, a coach and a legend. He is celebrated for his generous charitable contributions to academics at Penn State.
He was diagnosed with lung cancer just days after he was fired and died after a courageous fight from complications. I believe that a broken heart makes the struggle more difficult to conquer.
JoePa spent 46 years holding the love of millions in his heart. I have no doubt that the unfortunate events of the past few months will be a dim shadow over the light that he brought to so many lives.
Whether you went to Penn State, are a college football fan or have grown to learn the man behind the legend, always remember WE ARE PENN STATE!
