Paying It Forward

When it comes paying it forward, Lional Dalton gives all he can. Knowing firsthand how hard life can be, Lional Dalton understands how important it is to have role models. Lional was born and raised on the west side of Detroit. Having grown up in a dangerous, impoverished neighborhood, Lional’s life mirrors many of our youth’s here at Covenant House.

Lional grew up in a single parent household and sometimes found himself looking towards the “streets” for father figures. He also struggled throughout school, even admitting that when he entered college his reading level was at that of tenth grader. While struggling at home and at school, Lional soon found himself hanging around the wrong crowd. Life around him was chaotic, but the two positive factors in his life were football and his football coach. Lional looked to football as an escape from all the negativity around him. He went to practice early and left late. He broke countless football and track and field records in the Detroit Public School Athletic Department. And with the help of his coach, Lional began to believe that a college life was possible. But with all his successes, Lional still had challenges at home and in his neighborhood. Lional’s life came to a crossroad when he examined his surroundings and realized that many of his friends were either jobless, in prison or dead. He knew that he wanted more for his life and that he could not end up like people in his neighborhood. With determination, a life plan and a great mentor, Lional began his road towards success.

Even after graduating from Easter Michigan University, having won a Superbowl Championship, Lional continues to strive for more. Lional refused to be just another “washed up athlete.” When he is not working at his satellite radio company, he enjoys working with youth. He has several nonprofit organizations and spends much of his time mentoring and speaking with young kids. On July 8, 2010, Lional spoke at Covenant House Michigan, explaining his story and how he got to where he is today. Because of Lional’s own harsh background, he is always willing to inspire and help others any way he can. When asked what creed he lives by, his response was “you are your thoughts, so think positively.” He also stated, “If you have anyone bringing you down, you have to cut them loose…if its family or friends, you can’t have negative people around you.” Lional credits hard work, believing in himself as well as positive thinking as to why he is successful. Despite having grown up in a bad neighborhood, having an absent father and suffering academically, Lional continued to push forward.
Lional currently lives in Florida with his two children. Although originally he wanted a better life for himself, he now lives for his children. He prides himself on being a great father despite growing up without his dad. He also wishes to be a great help in the lives of other kids. He knows the importance of role models and now lives his life helping others.

To some, Lional is a Superbowl Champ, to others he is a businessman, but we should all see him as an inspiration. Lional has literally come from the bottom to the top and now he lives his life to see that others reach their potential.