Let's Give Him A Second Chance

According to reports on Tuesday, Michael Vick is playing football on new team; his prison team. The three time Pro Bowl quarterback has traded his NFL uniform for prison stripes. Vick, now serving a two year lockup for his involvement in a dog-fighting ring, took a lot of heat in the press and the court of public opinion, in addition to his sentence. While I do not condone the cruel treatment of animals, I must point out that Vick's biggest offenses were his arrogance and stupidity. He was arrogant enough to feel that his stardom would protect him, and stupid to think his involvement could be kept secret, given his very high profile. That said, I hope that people and the NFL give Michael Vick a second chance. His offense was not so egregious as to stand in the way of his redemption. Besides, losing your 130 million dollar contract (plus endorsements) and not to mention your freedom, teaches one hell of a lesson. When Vick emerges from prison, he should again ask for forgiveness and pledge to help organizations that work to prevent cruelty to animals. After her 2004 prison term, Martha Stewart's business by most accounts, is better then ever. Michael Vick deserves that same chance. It would be a shame to deny this man his fair shot at redemption and to earn a living with his god given talents.