Kneel In Prayer, Not In Protest

It has been almost a week ago that Buffalo Bills safety Damarhamlin fell on the field during a Cincinnati game. The response from Americans This has been nothing but miraculous.

Donations to Damar’s charity toy drive soared overnight, assistance was offered to his loved ones by individuals and companies alike, and, most remarkably, our divided nation rallied in unison behind a solitary purpose.

While we now know that Damar has a full consciousness and is alert, let us not forget the first reaction to this nearly-tragic incident.

When the number three on Damar’s jersey was facing the sky because the young man lay flat on his back, unable to move or breathe, the men nearest him gathered around with a swift and singular action — they dropped to their knees in prayer. This wasn’t the act of a mere individual, or even a limited group of players, but rather a collective reaction from all involved.

Dan Orlovsky, from ESPN, followed his lead and led his production team to devotion on live TV the next day. I cannot remember the last time I have seen that — or if I’ve ever seen that. Our entire nation joined together in praying for a young man we have never met or will meet. 

I do not know what religion the players were practicing on that field. I also don’t have their church attendance records. I only know that when those men saw a brother in need, when the situation in question was a matter of life or death, they didn’t hesitate to call upon a higher power. Imagine if prayer was not limited to times of need but continued.

Damar Hamlin is on the road to recovery. While we acknowledge the critical proficiency of the medical trainers as well as the top-tier staff at hospitals, let us also highlight the important role played by a nation united through worship.

There are two options: we can use the progress to create better communities or we can continue our lives in a rut filled with hatred and division. Only time will tell how we proceed, but this much is certain — rather than falling to our knees in protest, America is better served when we fall to our knees in prayer.

David Cone is a co-host and producer of the Daily Wire’s sports show Crain & Company, as well as a contributor to Morning Wire. David was a former Michigan quarterback. You can follow David on Twitter and Instagram @davidadamcone

The opinions expressed in this piece are solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect those of The Daily Wire.