We have seen it all before…dude goes pro (or gets a record deal), dude gets dough, and dude makes an airhead decision that lands him in a pot of boiling water. T.I., Gucci Mane, Shyne, Stallsworth, Vick, and Burress are just a few that have paid greatly for their decisions and actions over the years. In the past few weeks Mr. Gilbert Arenas also known as Agent Zero has gone from DC’s hero to a real zero in a blink of an eye. Gilbert Arenas seemed like the savior that the Wizards needed in order to compete with the top teams in the NBA. After being injured for what seemed like an eternity, Arenas finally returned only to be at the center of controversy. The now infamous incident occurred between Arenas and a teammate, Jarvaris Crittenton, in the locker room when Arenas and Crittenton allegedly pulled guns on each other over money. Arenas stated it was a prank gone wrong (C’mon Son!! LOL). Arenas has been suspended from the NBA indefinitely and charged with a felony (Carrying a Pistol outside a Home or Business), he will be sentenced in March. Over the past few weeks the story has changed and some of the Wizards have sung like birds, but that is neither here or there!
I’m trying to understand, where did Arenas and so many others go wrong? Are we dealing with people who have been “bad boys” all their lives? Do they give a flying &$%# about the law and consequences? Or does the money and status make people think they are invincible and the law no longer applies to them? People make mistakes as we all know, but a mistake that will cost you millions is a HUGE mistake. What examples are they setting for the young males who want to follow in their footsteps? (The questions are debatable) In most instances, males in the limelight are the only male figure that these young men have to look up to. I know it is sad, but we all know that the African American community is lacking positive males. Athletes and entertainers are role models whether they willfully accept the duty or not. Maybe one day the “bad boys” will answer some questions in order to justify their actions. I do not judge because that is not my job! However, I encourage everyone to be mindful of his or her actions, because someone is always watching. Whether it is our children, siblings, or little Raynisha and Taquan down the block, someone is always watching!
In order to take the pressure of entertainers and athletes we need more regular-ass people (as Lil Duval would say) to volunteer and mentor. (I’m going to do my part and start mentoring a child). Shine your light (a positive bright light) wherever you can. Be proud of what you have accomplished and encourage others that all things are possible. When you say you can be anything you want children should know that means not just entertainers and athletes. That also means doctors, lawyers, and even the President of the United States (Yes We Can)!!!
So I’m going to cut this post short in order to take my regular ass to sleep for work tomorrow. I’m a change agent attempting to make a difference in my community one person at a time. Trying to prevent incidents before people end up like Agent Zero. Let's all be sure to Think before we Act!! Be a Leader and guide our children to make the right decisions. Good Night people!!
TEA IS INSTANT WISDOM ~ JUST ADD WATER! - Astrid Aluada