Years ago I spent a good portion of Christmas eve with Junior Seau in Boston.We  had mutual friends and met after dinner in a local pub .Junior knew my background and we  spent hours talking about life,meaning and how to make the world a better place. If you believe in the myth that athletes are not bright Junior would quickly dispel that image. I found him to be incredibly intelligent , and he had an insatiable curiosity  about a host of issues. Much of the time he listened intently and was deeply interested in everything I had to say.Fame and fortune did not appear to be a burden to his humanity, and it was refreshing to hear his views on responsibility to others. It was obvious why his teammates and fans held him in such regard.It was more than his athletic skills;he was a human magnet and exceptional leader. Yesterday I learned of his death and it stunned me.This young ,vibrant person was obviously in tremendous emotional pain and ended his life.Regardless of the reasons why he ended his life,it  deeply saddens me and makes me keenly aware that we never know the struggles that occur within the souls of even the most successful.I hope that in my circle if there is anyone in such pain, that there will be some opportunity for me to bring whatever will alleviate that pain and provide a glimmer of hope.