What is clear to me, however, is that the American people American citizens have always lived in critical times. The fact that we have, thus far, always met the challenges that faced our nation should be cause for inspiration. Throughout our history, Americans have engaged their civic duty and responsibilities and measured themselves against American values.NOTES: NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell conducted a fan forum for Falcons seasonticket holders before the game. Mathis, who began his career with the Jets, had 573 catches with the Falcons from 19942002.

"I liked the motivational speech by Russell Wilson, especially hearing about the steps he takes daily to be successful," said Alfredo Gomez, a student from Lincoln High School in Tacoma, Wash. "I do some of those same things. [Wilson] gets up early every day.Last Sunday, for example, Clinton Portis never appeared in the public areas of the Redskins' locker room, as far as I could tell. No one saw his pack