Cuts

In a few days, NFL teams will form their opening day rosters. That means a number of players will not make the squad: they'll get cut. This process, which the media tactfully does not photograph or televise, touches more people than one would initially think. Recall, for example, when you were nosed out of a job you deeply wanted. Think about a time when that someone you just had to date brushed you aside for another. Consider an episode when you didn't get what at the time seemed the house of your dreams, because you were outbid by a few thousand dollars.

These sorts of incidents happen every day to just about everyone. Yes, even high achievers have their moments of disappointment. Somewhere along the line, we don't make the cut. If you've never had that experience, you're just not trying hard enough.

The illustration shows the late Johnny Unitas. He was cut from the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team that originally drafted him. He ended up playing for the Baltimore Colts and was arguably the greatest quarterback in the history of professional football.