A prayer for Dean Smith would typically not come from an opponent of the University of North Carolina, but a junior at NC State has written a column that offers just that.
The column, which is actually entitled “A prayer for Dean Smith,” was written by NC State student Rob McLamb and has been making the rounds on the internet. In the column, McLamb shares his admiration for the legendary UNC coach and says he hopes the Hall of Famer knows that his support extends beyond Tar Heels fans.
Dean Smith has been making fewer public appearances of late as his memory fades from Alzheimer’s, Yahoo! Sports notes. “A prayer for Dean Smith” addresses that.
McLamb writes :
“When Smith is having one of his better moments, it would be wonderful if he could just feel a warm breeze of love — the type of feeling people get when they look into the eyes of someone they care for unconditionally and see the exact same expression staring back. It would be an appropriate way to show gratitude for someone who gave so much to others.
“Let the warm regard from each person who has had his or her life improved by Smith be combined to form a sustained feeling.
“Let that feeling gain momentum all over the Triangle and the state. Let it be created right here, right now in Wake County and pick up steam as it reaches the gothic buildings in western Durham that represent a different shade of blue.”
The column has fans of UNC praising McLamb and his compassionate approach, breaking down barriers between the fierce rivals. This praise has extended to national sports outlets as well and all the fans from ACC schools who might now say a prayer for Dean Smith as a result.
