A Letter of Sympathy for Dak Prescott

Nov 2, 2013; Columbia, SC, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Dak Prescott (15) looks to pass the ball during the second quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

When I heard the news that Dak Prescott had lost his mother to cancer, I knew I wanted to write something about it, but I really didn’t know what. I didn’t know what direction I should go with it or how I should frame it. Then I just decided to write something specifically for Dak. I have no idea if he will ever read it. I could include a link to his Twitter account, but I think that would be tactless on my part. If he ever reads it, I hope he can find some solace in what I write.

Dear Dak,

I am so sorry to hear about your mother’s untimely passing this past weekend. There is probably nothing in this letter that is going to be groundbreaking or isn’t similar to something so many have probably already told you. I just wanted you to know that this fan cares more about you as a person than you as a quarterback.

Losing your mother at such an early age is one of the hardest things a person can deal with. I know because I wasn’t much older than you when my Mom passed away. I was 28 at the time and my mother had just celebrated her 53rd birthday when she died. It’s gut wrenching. The idea that the person who raised you and brought you into this world is now gone on to a better place leaves you cold and numb. If over the next several days when people ask you how you are doing or how you are holding up, don’t feel obligated to say that you are good or fine. I know that is the polite response that we have all had ingrained in us, but I have been where you are, and the last thing you need to worry about is holding any grief or anguish inside of you.

You are a Bulldog, and therefore you are one member of a very large family. We love you and we will be there to support you. In these difficult times, I would encourage you to find any ways that you can to honor your mother. Keep her close to your heart in everything you do. There are times when the grief will be too tough to bear, and those times usually come out of nowhere. I am six years removed from the death of my mother, and there are times when I miss her more than words can express for no apparent reason. When those times happen, call on your best friends. When they want to distract you with something else, let them. Sometimes, distracting yourself with something else is the only way to avoid the hurt and pain. Allow yourself such distractions.

I hope that you are doing as well as possible because I know you aren’t fine at this stage in your life. I hope that you have been able to find some comfort in the friends and family that have rallied around you. I hope you have felt the love for you as a person from all of the Mississippi State family. I hope, most of all, that you are able to grieve in whatever way you so desire for your mother.