Why Plaxico?

I am not a big Stephen A. Smith fan but he nailed it. When he said Plaxico Burris and the other young black athletes, who continue to do stupid things and break the law, were making it harder for future athletes who aspire to greatness, he spoke the obvious truth. Once they make it, these athletes think they are invincible and above reproach. Break the law, pay no attention to team rules, and use no common sense all seem to be the case for many.

For those of us not so fortunate to have been born with superior physical skills to get to the professional level, it is hard to comprehend how after accomplishing fame and fortune can be thrown aside for a night out on the town with our gun and friends. What possesses all this bravado? Is it a product of testosterone? Is it the need to validate their "maleness"? I don't think these decisions are made clear headed to say the least.

With our own kids, how do we instill "doing the right thing" when all they see the bravado on and off the field? Too many of us glorify our athletes and wish we had their money and opportunities. What about our kids? What do they think?

So why do we do with the Plaxico's of the world? How do we say making it to the top is enough? When will there be no need for a gun?