[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 152 (Tuesday, November 2, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2239]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E2239]]



                  SALUTING THE SPIRIT OF WALTER PAYTON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. J. DENNIS HASTERT

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 2, 1999

  Mr. HASTERT. Mr. Speaker, yesterday was a sad day for everyone in 
Chicagoland and for everyone who loved sports. But it was also a sad 
day for everyone who cherished the life of a special man whose 
influence extended far beyond the stadiums in which he played.
  With the death of Walter Payton, we not only have lost one of 
football's greatest stars, but we have also lost one of America's 
greatest citizens.
  His nickname was ``Sweetness,'' the perfect description for a Hall of 
Fame running-back whose silky smooth performance on the football field 
was the bane of most defenses.
  There is no doubt that Walter Payton will be remembered for his 
records, especially his remarkable all-time rushing total of 16,726 
yards over his 13-year career. More importantly, however, he will be 
remembered for the grace and dignity with which he carried himself both 
on and off the field.
  A lifelong Chicago Bears fan, I have sat in the bitter cold of 
Soldier Field only to have my spirit warmed by Water Payton's fierce 
determination and his amazing feats of athletic prowess. But I also saw 
the way he warmed people's hearts in his everyday life. He was someone 
who recognized the power of faith and the value of teamwork.
  As a local business owner in my district, Walter Payton played an 
important role in the economic revitalization of downtown Aurora, IL. 
While he built a successful restaurant and created new jobs for the 
area, he also became an integral part of the community.
  It was the same with the Bears. Walter Payton was the glue that often 
held a fractious team together. By his own example and leadership, he 
helped younger players meet new challenges, while at the same time 
encouraging veterans to reach new heights.
  As a high school coach, I saw the way Walter Payton inspired young 
athletes to strive to do their best. He was a true role model because 
he exemplified an important life lesson that teaches us that success 
requires hard-work, discipline, and concentration.
  It was a philosophy that made him physically powerful and spiritually 
centered. And it should come as no surprise that he approached his 
recent illness head-on, with the same courage and grit he displayed on 
the field.
  But there was another side to Walter Payton--the playful and 
mischievous side that delighted fans, friends, and teammates. Walter 
Payton had the confidence to live his life to the fullest. And he had 
the rare ability to make us revel in that life along with him.
  Just last February, Walter Payton said: ``It's just like football. 
You never know when or what your last play is going to be. You just 
play it and play it because you love it. Same way with life. You live 
life because you love it. If you can't love it, you just give up 
hope.''
  Walter Payton never gave up hope. It is with fondness for that spirit 
that we remember him today and forever.

                          ____________________