There is one true constant in life, and that is change. Change comes whether we want it to or not. It can be our friend, or our foe. How we handle it makes all the difference.

Take New England Patriots star linebacker Tedy Bruschi for example. Every Pats fan has a special place in their heart for this scrappy, dedicated, loyal team leader. Many cannot imagine the Patriots without him. But without him we will be this 2009 season as Bruschi gracefully bowed out of the sport last week after 13 seasons in the same uniform.

Bruschi came from humble beginnings and the road to sports superstardom was not always smooth. Yet he dedicated himself to the game, gave 110 percent, overcame his shortcomings and grew into a revered team captain. When it seemed unlikely that he would return to the field after a post Pro Bowl stroke, his love of the sport could not keep him away and he enjoyed a triumphant return. Through it all, he never lost sight of what was truly important or his principles, remaining true to himself, his family and his team.

When the business that is professional football indicated that it might be time for a change for Bruschi, he embraced it on his own terms. He exercised insight and wisdom, choosing to retire from his beloved Patriots near the top of his game, rather than lose his starting status or worse, be traded. At the hastily called press conference where he announced his decision, shocking teammates and fans alike, he held his head high, was completely positive and complimentary of the franchise and its leadership, and again provided an example of grace and class too rarely seen today in professional sports. He recognized when it was time to move on, and did so with a dignity that will undoubtedly open many doors for him in the future.

Whatever Bruschi’s next endeavor, his love affair with Patriot and football fans across the nation will continue. And one doesn’t need to be a football fan to learn from his fine example on how to recognize and deal with change. Change can conquer or control us, or, it can transform us and position us for bigger and better things. It all depends on how we play the game.