This will be my last post about the superbowl. It is now Thursday, days after the game and I am still bothered by the negative response to The Walter Payton Man of the Year award. Seriously folks, again, with the hate, why? This award is given to a player that has shown excellence both on and off the field. This award is given to a player that represents “the best of the NFL’s commitment to philanthropy and community impact”.
Once a player is chosen, from 32 eligible winners, a donation from The NFL and Nationwide is given to the players charity of choice. This is a $250,000 donation. In addition, the players not chosen receive a $40,000 donation to the charity of their choice.
First, I want to congratulate all 32 nominees on their service to their community and their charity. Second, I would like to congratulate Dak Prescott on being chosen as The Walter Payton Man of the Year.
So, here is my question…Why all the hate? Was it because he wears a jersey of a team you do not support? Was it just hate for the sake of hate?
When Dak Prescott’s name was announced at the superbowl, the crowd began to boo. Rumor has it, it was because he is a former Dallas Cowboy and the Philadelphia Eagles have a rivalry. I don’t know who was responsible for the “booing” but I do know that it was completely unsportsmanlike. Look, I get a good rivalry. I am an Ohio State Buckeyes fan and OSU and Michigan have had a lengthy rivalry.
That said, I would like to think that a crowd would have enough respect for the cause, for the good, for the ability to give back to the community. It is so hard to respect those that cannot put their hatred aside for the good of the cause.
There is so much hate in this world. Can we please, if only for a moment, put the hate aside and appreciate those that are trying to make things better? Can we show a little respect for those that get out there and do great things for their communities and their charities?
This is not about Dak Prescott or the Dallas Cowboys. It is about treating others with respect when all we are trying to do is make the world a better place. This is about knowing when to stop being hateful and, if only for a moment, respecting the contribution of others.
Please, just stop with the hate. Booing someone for doing good things is a whole new kind of low. Come on football fans, do better. Please, appreciate the good in people. Save the booing for the game.
