Mark Starr
I would like to play Devils advocate for a second and maybe illustrate to myself that I am, a progressive. I do feel emotions toward steroids and I do understand why it is such a big deal for the media. Basically, I understand why society is upset with this.
However, I do not think it is that big of a deal. Honestly, is Marion Jones not a competitor? Was she not out to attain greatness? I applaud Jones for not being afraid to be great. If you think for one instant that Jones was the only athlete to use enhancements, STOP. If you believe that Jones had an advantage over other athletes simply due to steroids, STOP. The simple truth is that society expects "heros" and "superhuman strength." If you disagree with that statement, take a look at prime time t.v. (Of course wait until the writers can script something new). I respect Jones even more for once again delivering "superhuman strength," while dealing with this empty trial. If the honorable Kenneth Karas honestly believes that this ruling will prevent young athletes from using steroids, then he greatly underestimates American capitalism.
This is where I become a progressive. At this point I think all athletes should be allowed to use steroids. In order to be an NBA player or an Olympic athlete or even an Executive you must make sacrifices. Greatness is not free. At this point for most professional sports I would speculate that the steroid sacrifice already has been made. Unfortunately, it is simply the nature of competition. Let us all stop living in fantasy and accept the future that we (society) have created.
"The price of greatness is responsibility." Winston Churchill
THANK YOU MARION JONES.