Dear Professional Athlete,
I understand that you are not required to be “role models” and that your morals may be different than mine, and that your lifestyle is more elaborate than the average American or mine. Does that mean you should be stupid? Does that mean you continually make bad decisions that get you in trouble with the law? Does it make you untouchable just because you are famous? No, and you should have realized that by now. There have been lists of other famous people in the different sections of fame that have gotten in trouble. All you have to do is use your brain and it will keep you from getting into trouble.
There are basic steps that you should take into consideration before deciding to do something. It does not mean you do not get to have a good time. In fact, it means that you still get to have fun, more than I can, and eliminate most of the ways you can get into serious trouble.
Get a designated driver. It does not have to be someone that you want to party with, but there are plenty of different ways to get a DD. You could call a cab, hire a driver, or even rent a limo service for the night. That still allows you to go out to clubs, have some drinks, and not get the DUI’s that seem to be swarming around right now.
Quit fighting outside the club. Immature people set up altercations, and responding to their altercations physically or verbally shows your lack of maturity. What is the best way to deal with a bully? You know the answer, showing them that their actions have no effect on your life, either presently or in the future. Remember, those people starting the altercations are usually just trying to get their fifteen minutes of fame. By responding to them, you are granting them that opportunity, plus giving them money that you earned.
Leave your piece at the crib. There is no reason to be carrying weapons on you when you are out drinking and carrying on. Especially in states that makes it illegal to carry firearms. I understand you think there might be people that are trying to harm you, but that is what our police force is for, to serve and protect. If you are worried about being harmed while being out, bring your posse with you, inform the police, or just stay out of those areas.
The list still grows on stupid things that gets you in trouble, but if you use your brain you could save some headaches, whether it is with the law, team, fans, media, or even financially. I am no saint. I have made mistakes in my life as well. The different is, I have learned from mine. There are times that I question whether you have. I know this does not include every professional athlete, and there is only about five percent of athletes that are actually causing this letter. The issue is those five percent are the ones that always end up being broadcasted across the world. The media may over look some of the donations that you give to organizations, but they will never over look you making a mistake. Please think before you act, it will save you some negative media stories, and save you some money in the long run.
