Wow. I am so sick of the Tiger Woods soap opera. Does anyone in print or broadcast journalism remember what "hard news" is anymore? Isn't it more important to learn about the Haitian recovery, the progress on the Afghan war front, the draw down of troops from Iraq, or even the complicated mess of health care reform? If you care about these or any other issues facing our nation, our electorate, our citizens, you have to look hard and long for anything informative. The news for the past two days has been dominated by the public humiliation of Tiger Woods. Apparently, he gets high ratings from something other than his appearances on the pro golf tour.
I, of course, saw bits and pieces of his public apology. How could I not? Late night insomnia means I couldn't avoid it. I have to admit, I was more than a bit mesmerized by the human drama unfolding. Who else in recent memory has been so shamed before a frenzied public? It was uncomfortable to watch, especially the pained, vacant expression of his mother, arms folded, staring into space. That has too feel really bad. Its the polar opposite of the mighty quarterback shouting into the camera, "Thanks, Mom!" Who wants to have their mother look like that for the world to see? Pure, dignified, painful disappointment incarnate.
I have to say, other than for nosey, prurient entertainment, who really gives a s*$^! I mean, really?! Will the fact that he is or is not a flaming pig change any one's life one whit? Unless you are a stockholder in the P.G.A., Nike, Buick or any of the myriad commercial ventures he pitches when not in the proverbial dog house, it doesn't matter. His rise or fall will not lower our taxes, build our infrastructure, cure our cancer or bring home our troops. I know it is human nature to get involved in all this crap, but let us remember that this is what it is. Crap. Not some allegory for the human condition, the battle of the sexes or the temptations of the rich and powerful. What it is at its essence is a tired, sad story of a spoiled little boy who got caught with his hand in too many cookie jars and now he is getting one big ass time out. He deserves it, but do we all have to watch? If ratings have anything to say about it, we will be watching this sordid tale for months to come. It's just too bad the real casualties in this are two very small, very innocent children. It is way too much to hope that they will be showed any kindness and compassion in all this from the jackals in the mainstream or tabloid press. For the sake of them, do a kindness, send a message and don't watch anymore. God help them. They are going to need it.
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