this makes me smile: ted williams one year later

As a Red Sox fan, any story about the greatest hitter of all time catches my eye.

But this Ted Williams, and his story about a second chance at life, makes me smile. I mean BIG smile.

Entertainment Tonight features a story about a formerly homeless crack addict, who was given (and who has accepted) a second chance at life.

Stories of redemption always make me smile that smile you smile when you remember that there are still people in the world trying to make it a better place, and trying to serve those in need without demanding something in return.

I wish Mr. Williams a healthy, happy, and sober life, and may he continue to stay near to the people that have made his life so enjoyable.

HT: Scott Bailey

cleveland fans respond to lebron james’ nike ad

LeBenedict James is quickly learning that history does not remember traitors well. In an effort to improve LeBron’s image (and protect their shoe selling investment), Nike has produced a new ad that is intended to make Mr. James’ decision appear a little less traitorous.

But sports fans do not remember defectors well. Look at Brett Favre and Alex Rodriguez and Roger Clemens – all the best in the business in their respective sports at one time or another, but who left their original teams via free agency after not delivering what they had promised. (Granted Brett Favre won a Super Bowl, but he still tarnished his legacy by playing elsewhere…oh, and by text messaging.)

On the other end of the spectrum, you have Cal Ripkin, Jr., John Elway, Ted Williams, Mike Schmidt, Tim Duncan, Paul Pierce, Mickey Mantle, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, etc.- all who have played their entire careers for the same team and who have been rewarded with loyal fans.

There are, of course, cases like Michael Jordan and Wayne Gretzky, who played with other teams later in their careers, but that was after bringing multiple championships to their original team. LeBron has done no such thing.

So, now that the Cleveland Cavaliers’ owner has responded, the fans of Cleveland have responded with an ad of their own. Enjoy.

(HT: JW)