Michael Irvin takes Jackie Boyd and family to the 2016 Pro Football Hall of Fame Festivities

Michael Irvin and Jackie Boyd

Michael Irvin and Jackie Boyd

Jackie Boyd and his children at HOF

Jackie Boyd and his children at HOF

Jackie Boyd at HOF

Jackie Boyd at HOF

Jackie Boyd at HOF

Jackie Boyd at HOF

Jackie Boyd at HOF

Jackie Boyd at HOF

Jackie Boyd at HOF

Letter from Jackie Boyd to Michael Irvin

August 9, 2016

Michael,

Just a few weeks ago you were just a picture on card in a notebook of my childhood memories. I grew up with my Grandma and Grandpa watching the Dallas Cowboys on TV. I never thought in a million years I would meet someone like you that would take a moment to listen to what I would have to say. When I met you at UNT your words of encouragement about my diverse family showed me a new perspective on the course of change that my family and I are blazing.

Recognizing that and inviting us as your guests to the 2016 Hall of Fame was an exciting adventure for me and three of my kids. We got to meet some amazing people and have some unique encounters. In the midst of it all, what you did for me was to give me a weekend with my kids to have fun and bonded us together. I was able to explain to them why you had done that and the difference our family was making.

We also had the opportunity to share our story with a family at the Hotel pool. The family invited us to have some cake with their grandson on his 8th birthday. The grandfather told me that he had reservations about you, but when I told him our story and what you had done for us, he became a little emotional and stated that he now had a whole new respect for you. I decided to give the young man one of the cards you signed for us and the family was overwhelmed. I asked them to put a little place in their heart for you and the Dallas Cowboys as he was a Green Bay Packers fan. I explained to him that this is all about drawing us all together.

This also showed my kids that it is better to give than receive. When the HOF game was canceled I expressed to my children, “Someone’s mishap is not our misfortune.” We still went down to the HOF and toured the hall and gift shop and had a great time. This taught my children that even in the midst of disappointment your perspective on the situation is what determines the outcome.

This was a great weekend with lots of challenges traveling with three kids across the country, but at the end of it we had a great time. My kids have a new respect for traveling and for me as their father. They also have a new respect for football and all of the people who are a part of it. Most of all, a family from Green Bay who may have had their doubts also now have a new respect for who you are. I hope that we represented you well and we are so very grateful to have been given this wonderful opportunity.

Thank you,

Jackie Boyd