I can dig this....and hey....I didn't make every brilliant move possible myself in my 20's. I guess that's why I give them a little room to grow up.....I know I had to myself. I get where you're coming from though.....if it's messing up the job....then it's too much. They should know people are watching....and some are just waiting for them to make a mistake. Judges and district attorneys trying to make a name for themselves, hateful talking heads, and hateful cops are out there and if you give them room....they will get in and do damage in your life......so they should be careful. A little more attention than a rookie seminar might be needed as well. The league should consider some real help for these guys through their first few years. It might be a wise investment if more guys make it through and contribute as well as they could, by not getting caught up in all the other trappings. Sometimes folks just need a little help. I tell young artists that I work with that it's ok to have fun....I tell them.........the saying is sex, drugs, and rock & roll, but the first 2 can really mess up the last one if you aren't careful!....focus on your art! I have nothing against the first 2, but if you're planning to build your life on the last one.....you better be serious about it...cause it's tougher than most folks think! Some listen and some don't.....I've seen some talented people let life kick their butt....so it's easier said than done....I know. Plus.....It's tougher to be an example and learn from errors when the whole world gets to watch every mistake and mess up and judge.....so I think it's a little complicated as an issue. Now that's not to say I don't think personal responsibility should count for something. They're given a great opportunity...so they should take it seriously and get everything out of it that they can. I'm not trying to excuse the mistakes....just trying to put the usually very young and often not well-rounded individuals into perspective. They are gonna make errors....just like most of us have done and will continue to do. It's not ok....but I think we should try to leave a little room for them to grow up...and out of the dumb stuff.
Hey guys, Maybe the league's help they do offer is a bit disingenuous as it is. A real representative union is needed.
