I was looking for modern day example of Paul’s heart, and I found it to some degree in an NFL football player. In a game between the San Diego Chargers and the Denver Broncos on December 10, 2006, Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson (known as L.T.) took his position the same way he had done hundreds of times before during the season. But this particular play was different. After receiving the ball and sprinting around two defenders for a seven-yard gain, Tomlinson found himself in the end zone for his NFL record-breaking 29th touchdown of the season.
But, as impressive as this accomplishment was, Tomlinson’s selfless behavior after the run really stole the show. Instead of raising his hands in victory or dancing across the turf like so many other players, Tomlinson beckoned for his offensive line—those inconspicuous behemoths who cleared the path for his success—to join him. With over 67,000 fans cheering wildly, he helped his entire team bask in the glory.
Even more surprising, he refused to acknowledge any individual accomplishment when talking with reporters after the game. Instead, he consistently used plural pronouns to include his teammates: "When we’re old and can’t play this game anymore, those are the moments that we’re going to remember, being able to tell our kids and tell our grandchildren. We made history today, and there’s no better feeling than to share it with the group of guys in that locker room."