The World Series, And Social Problems

During an World Series open thread that I posted in the Greenroom at Hot Air, a fellow commenter, (rukiddingme), posted this FYI:

Rovin, pardon the O/T fyi.
Fox 4 news here is reporting a story about Josh Hamilton being able to detect a specific odor emanating from the outfield stands.
As I am sure you know, Josh has struggled with drug abuse.
Reports say it is everywhere outside the stadium as well.
May or may not be topic worthy for either you or one of your colleagues.
rukiddingme on October 29, 2010 at 12:55 AM

For the purpose of not getting too political, (in a fun baseball thread), or posting a fairly long response, I decided to post it here at RovinsWorld:

RUKM,

I’ve heard the story of Hamilton’s “struggles” with alcohol and drugs, (specifically cocaine) , and finally his convictions to do without both. This is sadly a typical story of raw talent getting thrust into a system, handed a $4 million dollar paycheck, with little restrictions or guidance. Personally, having a similar “struggle”, (on a much lower pay scale), over thirty years ago, I can speak from “experience” that it is so easy to think you’re invincible and blind to the reality that anyone is being harmed. Let’s just say I regrettably wasted some good years of my life that can’t be returned, and leave it at that.

Josh Hamilton’s story is a good one, in that he overcame his addictions and saw a better future, and fortunately still had opportunities for a bright career. For every “good story” there are thousands that failed to climb out of these “predicaments”. Tragically, the Steve Howe Story is one where Howe could not, or refused to recover, (even after baseball gave him far too many chances, imo). I can guess that Josh Hamilton’s Christian faith, his family, and his inner desire to excel all played a part in his new life. It really is like being re-born.

As for the “specific odor” in and around AT&T Park, I can tell you this is sadly an accepted lifestyle in the Bay Area and in fact the whole state of California---see Prop 19. At Golden Gate Park, if you are smoking a cigarette, (a legal tobacco product), your are frowned upon, and the local police WILL write you a citation. On the other hand, you can walk through the park with a marijuana cigarette burning and officials WILL look the other way. For the record, I am voting against Prop 19 because I personally feel the message we, (this state), will send to our children is that the product is legally condoned and socially accepted. For the liberals out there that say, “yeah, but they’re doing it anyway” and “it’s safer than alcohol”, I contend this is the slippery slope that will lead to a large portion of our society that will become nothing but potheads, wasting their lives getting stoned and becoming non-productive---it IS STILL A DRUG, and I can again tell many, (from experience), that prolonged marijuana use is addictive. Lastly, (for this post), the proponents for Prop 19, (including Governor Schwarzenegger), who are arguing that the product would become a large source of revenue for the state, I find utterly repulsive to an ignorant and deteriorating society, and say rukiddingme!

Finally, Josh Hamilton will be reminded of these temptations throughout his entire life, and he must learn to deal with it, including the “specific odor” at AT&T Park. If you, (or the news media), think this is effecting his abilities to hit the ball, I disagree. Ask the powerful offensive line-up of the Philadelphia Phillies if they can find a “distraction” for their pitiful hitting in the NLCS. Hint: It is the Giant’s starting pitching staff and their superior bullpen---(see Matt Cain’s performance last night). I would submit that few baseball fans or players, (with the exception of the National League Western Division), have seen such a prolific pitching staff in the last half of this season.

I wish the best for Josh Hamilton in his personal challenges and his new chance at life without drugs. Many don't get this second chance. Perhaps the Texas air will be more satisfying to this great hitter, but I wouldn't bet on it.

Respectfully,

Rovin