What a Dope? really?

If you haven't seen the photo of Michael Phelps or heard or read about the hype, check out the link.

This is a disappointing event, to be sure. But is it worth the hype. Like so many others I was mermerized by Michael's performance this past summer and four years before. And by all accounts he has handled himself in the public eye, for the most part, with a particular grace.
The publication "News of the World" has a reputation for sensationalizing its stories and the 'partier' who is quoted in the story lacks a certain credibility.

From what I have seen about this in the media it would appear that he was partying like a 23 year old who is normally under a great deal of pressure. It is uncertain at this point what his sponsors and his endorsement companies will do with this news. I hope they cut him a bit of slack.

The bigger issue, of course, is a culture that elevates celebrity to hero status. Maybe an instance like this makes him a bit more human and a bit more humble. I wouldn't have agreed with the way he chose to blow off steam but it is good to see that he has the same need as all of us to do so.