Shame on Lebron? Shame on Gilbert? Shame on ESPN…hmmm actually shame on us.

 

While there is plenty of shame to go around for errors in judgment, for self-serving displays and for money making schemes devoid of character surrounding the Lebron James departure from Cleveland.  However, at the end of the day we need to look to ourselves and ask how did we contribute to these events? We as fans need to examine our need to turn athletes into heroes. Heroes deserving of parades filled with adoration and pleas for their loyalty and attention.

When was the last time that our city held a rally in protest of corruption and demanded the removal of amoral and unethical public officials from positions of power that holds real impact on our individual lives? When was the last time that this city championed individuals who save lives, protect lives and improve lives here in our city every day.

We should be examining ourselves and asking. Why does the ability and skill to hit a baseball, sink a basketball or score a touchdown stir more passion and interest in us than the ability to raise money to feed the poor, or the creativity to teach, the selflessness of some to donate not from their surplus or the courage to stand for what is right and not what is popular?

Instead of focusing on Lebron and his motivation, his personality and his character, we should ask ourselves what was our contribution.  Athletes simply by virtue of their physical talents should not become our heroes or Kings to be worshipped. We should ask ourselves did they make a difference in the lives of others through time and talent and selfless giving. It is those individuals who deserve parades and our admiration.  We should rally our efforts and take to the streets to prevent children and seniors from being abused and exploited, to campaign for money to feed our poor and help those without jobs.

Maybe the narcissistic, self absorbed title should be ours. We as fans are willing to excuse angry tirades, childish behavior and violation of rules by our athletes as long as they bring us a victory. Aren’t we equally to blame for the creation of the King?

We should take this painful lesson of perceived betrayal and challenge ourselves to enjoy sports and be entertained by our gifted athletes. And then let’s go out and find real heroes in our city who inspire us to be better human beings.