A role model is “a person who serves as a model in a particular behavioral or social role for another person to emulate” (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/role+model)

 

In a recent Business Week article Tiger Woods said, "I think it's an honor to be a role model. If you are given a chance to be a role model, I think you should always take it because you can influence a person's life in a positive light, and that's what I want to do. That's what it's all about".

 

Woods was the epitomeof this definition, until a couple of weeks ago. In fact, Dave Czesniuk, Director of Operations for Northeastern University's Center for the Study of Sport in Society said, "No one has approached this level of perfection on and off the playing surface, maybe ever, without a single blot or tarnish. The real story here is the meeting of expectations with reality. The guy's a human being and we forget that". 

However, Tiger’s squeaky-clean image is tarnished because of two events. First, a car accident in the early hours of a Friday morning left many more questions than answers. Next, word leaked that he had an affair(s). A few days later, the 33-year-old infallible Woods asked for privacy after he issued a “profound apology” for what he called “transgressions”.

 

This Woods’ meltdown has reignited discussions about whether athletes and mega entertainers are ideal role models. The L.A. Lakers' Kobe Bryant, the late former Tennessee Titans quarterback Steve McNair and CBS Late Show host David Letterman are among thousands of celebrities well known for their indiscretions.

 

“We have learned by now to invest admiration in public figures with a grain of salt. With Woods, we just ate the whole salt lick. Say it with me: Never, ever again,” stated Steve Elling, Senior Writer for CBSSports.com.

 

I find it curious that a segment of the public worships the mega celebrity creating a bigger than life image. Yes, Tiger remains the world’s greatest golfer. However, he has more than given back to the game and to society (e.g. the Tiger Woods Foundation that supports community-based programs that improve the health, education, and welfare of all children in the U.S.)

 

Now, the public knows that Woods has flaws and is human. I find it amazing with such an incredibly busy schedule that he has had the time available to have flings for nearly 2 ½ years. Then again, maybe that has been a priority.

 

In today’s world, the public wants that superhero and it seemed that Tiger suited this role. Since this issue surfaced a reality check is needed.

 

Children need to look primarily to their parents (caregivers) as their role model, not some person they see on television that for the most part only really cares about himself and his family. Kids need adults with ethics that they “see” in their daily lives as ones to look to for guidance and leadership.

 

Do not get me wrong, I am not defending Tiger for his actions but anyone that has had an infidelity, or other noteworthy sins certainly should not talk.

 

 

Sometimes I feel society wants that perfect person. Nine to five job, devoted family man/woman, with no bad habits and no dark secrets from the past.

 

Does that person really exist? It certainly is not Tiger. He remains golf's biggest attraction with true icon status but his eyes tend to wander and it got him in trouble.

 

We can all feel human again. Locally, the Prince George Cougars, Spruce Kings, and UNBC Timberwolves ideally strive to have their players act as role models to the community’s youth. There is nothing wrong with that. Nevertheless, let us not fool ourselves, even these kids, (as all of us) have flaws, just some more than others.

 

Maybe Tiger’s rendezvous will help put things back in perspective. It is easy to criticize the billion dollar athlete who until recently seemed to have it all. However, let us all look into our own backyard first and make sure the skeletons are all out of the closet. In other words, “DON'T JUDGE A MAN UNTIL YOU HAVE WALKED A MILE IN HIS BOOTS.” (American Proverb)

 

 

  

 

Comedy writer Jerry Perishohttp://monologuewriter.blogspot.com/

 

 

About Us | Contact Us | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Site Map