The Royal Line We Don’t Always See

Everyone knows someone, and every institution has some of them—those who came before us, gave their best, fought battles, and laid the foundation for what we now enjoy. They may not have been the star athlete or prominent executive, but their servant-like leadership and always-giving nature are what made the difference. Yet their names rarely made the headlines.

How many of us owe our current opportunities and accomplishments to someone else’s behind-the-scenes commitment? A coach who saw something in us before we saw it in ourselves. A parent who poured out everything so we could stand confidently. A teacher who gave without hesitation, not to be honored, but to build something with lasting impact. A boss who went out on a limb to allow us to succeed. A nurse who took the extra step to comfort you in time of need.

True royalty isn’t about the championships won, awards received, records set, or credit given. It’s not about power or privilege, but the considerable investment one makes for another to shape their future, often without recognition. This “royalty through sacrifice” is born out of genuine care, and that makes it truly worthy of honor.

Ron Polk, my baseball coach at Mississippi State University, won roughly 1400 games over 50 years of coaching. Ask any of his players—many of whom have gone on to play professional baseball—what they remember most about their coach. It’s not the victories on the field, but the lessons and values learned that prepared them for life once they were off the field.

History shows that many kings and queens were not made, but born into royalty, distinguished by their thrones, palaces, and armies. They were either celebrated for leadership or feared for their tyranny. Some ruled their dominions justly and were remembered for their wisdom and justice. Others were self-serving and oppressive, with their unearned, inherited royalty passed down through generations.

It’s different today. Since our pop culture icons in Hollywood, music, and sports are tied to fame, influence, and success, real royalty is harder to spot. Thankfully, it still exists in those who lead by example, with humility, integrity, and generosity. As we reflect on how we honor royalty, let it not be through flattery, but with gratitude toward those who value others above themselves.

Take a moment. Look back. Say thank you. Pass it forward. Be one of the royal ones—not for your crown or success, but because of your character.

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