Training Camp: What the Best Do Better Than Everyone Else

Chapter 5. The Phone Call

"Hey, Momma," Martin said.

"You were great tonight, Martin. We all watched you on television. I was cheering, 'That's my baby boy. He's playing in the NFL.'"

"Thanks, Momma," he said, unsure of whether he had the heart to tell her.

"Why didn't you play any more after your touchdown?" she asked.

Never one to lie to his mother, Martin knew he had to give her an answer. "Because I got injured. I sprained my ankle and I don't know what's going to happen now. I might not make the team. I'm scared. I'm real scared. We have to get your heart better. I don't know what else to do," he said as tears welled up in his eyes.

"You worry too much about me, Martin. I have my faith. God will provide."

"Well, he hasn't yet," Martin said, gritting his teeth as tears streamed down his face; he looked around the room to make sure no one was there.

"I'm going to get your heart fixed, Momma. Whatever it takes, I'm going to get it done."

"Oh, Martin, you've always been such a good boy. Always done the right thing. Always try to be so strong. Always trying to do it by yourself." She knew she never had to worry about Martin getting in trouble. He was the one who took care of his younger sister and brother. He was the one who made sure the family went to church on Sundays. He was the one who worked so hard in school and at football. But what worried her most about Martin was his lack of faith. ...