Alcohol is a problem that affects not only the richest of athletes and businessmen, but also the middle- and lower-class workers who need a "relief" from their everyday stress.
Most know of the consequences and repercussions of taking a sip, but does that stop most individuals?
Most of the time, no.
Without a doubt, Detroit Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera made a mistake. Anytime an individual mixes alcohol and operating a vehicle, he or she is gambling with their lives and the lives of other motorists.
This writer does not condone or approve of mixing alcohol and driving while impaired, but he does defend a man who lives underneath a microscope because he makes millions of dollars and is on television every day.
How many of you know an acquaintance, friend or family member who has either received a DUI or other alcohol-related offenses? How many of you have a friend or family member with a drinking problem that you only discuss privately?
That's what I thought.
Humans are prone to making mistakes. Some of these mistakes are worse than others (of course) but I think people as a whole believe in forgiveness, second chances and even third chances when necessary.
Why can't we give Miguel Cabrera a third chance?
Pundits and sports writers across the country are ready to bury Cabrera and label him as an abusive, egotistical drunk. They are looking for Cabrera to be another reason they can continue to write articles.
If Miguel Cabrera comes through this situation cleanly, the only thing us bloggers and sportswriters will have to write about is the dominance he displays on the field, right?
What's the fun in that?
The lens that athletes are looked through is so microscopic, so high-definition, that fans can see every sneeze, swear or struggle an athlete goes through.
Before we crucify our favorite athletes, maybe we should look at ourselves and force our friends to look in a mirror.
Maybe we should ask ourselves the same questions that every athlete should ask: Should I have another? Am I good enough to drive?
For mainstream society, unfortunately, the answer to this question many times is "yes." We believe we can be Superman or Wonder Woman. We believe that we are invincible from the wrath of the law and there is no way we will get caught like our friends, brothers and sisters.
Ladies and gentlemen, the truth is we will all get caught eventually.
Miguel Cabrera is no different than you and me. Yes, he might weigh 270 pounds and can hit a baseball farther than any human being should be able to, but think of all the things you provide for society.
Perhaps you are an all-star in your own way. Maybe you inspire others with your mastery of words or craftsmanship. Perhaps you preach to your children to always make the right decision, even in adversity. Or maybe you just make the right decision to call for a ride home after a night of fun.
Any way you cut it, you're still important—just like the first baseman who amazes us with his strength.
The truth is, Miguel Cabrera deserves to face punishment from the law because he broke it.
However, Miguel Cabrera does not deserve to lose fans just because he's rich and can afford more expensive Scotch than you.
Think about it, fans: Is it right for your family and friends to leave you when you've messed up?
Exactly.
The Tigers are doing nothing but caring for their first baseman, their MVP and, most importantly, their family.
Go ahead and doubt. We'll see you all in Cooperstown.
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