Finding Michael Vick

There comes a point in every man's life when we make a mistake.

Our mistakes may vary: one person may have cussed in public and another may have gotten a DUI. A child may have gotten caught stealing cookies or a man may have accidentally shot his hunting partner (Dick Cheney). The point is, although some mistakes are worse than others, we've all made them.

Since we've all made a mistake at least once in our life, it is up to us to decide how to handle it. Are we going to shift the blame to another teammate like Maurice Clarrett, or are we going to man up to it like Carmelo Anthony?

The public's perception of a high-profile athlete who makes a mistake all balances on how he handles his repercussions. In today's society, where the most vile things like premarital sex and drug use is running rampant in youth, you will find that even the most heinous crimes can be forgiven.

In 2004, Kobe Bryant turned from fan favorite into a vile monster in an instant when the allegations of rape were put against him. He wasn't convicted as the case was dropped from lack of evidence and funds.

Now, after winning last year's MVP award, Kobe is back in the center of basketball fan's hearts.

In 2000, Ray Lewis was charged with murder during a Super Bowl party. He and his two accomplices were put into jail—but Lewis was released because he "ratted" out his accomplices.

He played the next year, and many sports fans don't even know the charges were brought against him.

Enter Michael Vick.

Though not the best quarterback, he was undoubtedly the most exciting player in professional sports. He did some of the most amazing things on the football field.

But, it all came crashing around him when he was caught financing a dog fighting ring and was convicted of killing eight dogs.

He apologized soundly and entered jail early to shorten his sentence. He has done all the right things and has said all the right words. Now, as the one year anniversary of his incarceration approaches and the date of his release grows ever nearer, it is time to decide what we should do.

Kobe Bryant may have raped a woman—and Ray Lewis committed murder.

Think about this.

Would you rather have your dog killed or you daughter or girlfriend raped? Would you rather have your dog killed or you son, husband, boyfriend, or best friend murdered?

That's what I thought.

I am not saying Michael Vick should go unpunished. All I am saying is that, when he gets out of prison, he should be allowed to play again. Everyone deserves a second chance.