Class dismissed

Fans have the tendency to stand up for their favorite athletes, especially when one of those athletes' integrity is called into question. When you hear that one of "your guys" have been arrested at this bar or called into question for their involvement in this or that, or hear about them getting DUI's or busted with drugs, or even fathering love children outside of their marriages, we jump up and scream from every mountain top saying "he would never do that!" just because he was league MVP in 2004.

Well, what do we really know about that athlete? How many times have we had intimate conversations with that person? How many times did we go to their child's birthday party? Exactly, we do not know, we have not spent that time with them. We may appreciate what those athletes do for your favorite team, and although they are not heroes, we place them on the pedestal. Thing is we have no clue who they are, I am somewhat surprised they know they are after they have been through their public speaking classes and what to say and what not to say. If it wasn't for sports maybe they are stealing your car or creating a cure for cancer, we will never know.

One thing I do know is these athletes have a platform to tell us if the infractions brought against them are true or not. These athletes have the ability to apologize to fans, teams, and cities. These athletes can go home and deal with the ramifications of their actions with family and friends. Unfortunately one man cannot do this, and that is why the book on Walter Payton is so outrageously misguided, selfish, and complete irresponsible. I have not, nor will I read any part of this book as for one, it tarnishes the memory I have of one of the greatest athletes to walk this Earth, as well as tarnishes the image of a man who, from all accounts was a very great, honest, and trustworthy man.

This book is irresponsible, and the writer, as well as the publishing company who is backing this book should be held accountable for their gross misuse of judgement as the person they are talking about no longer has the opportunity to defend his name, his legacy, or his life. I do pray that a more sensible idea crosses these people's mind, decide to can this book idea, and move forward.

Huh, to think, this author has the ability to walk onto any TV or radio show or newspaper and defend his thoughts behind this book, however the subject of his material is not, doesn't sound too fair in my opinion.