Michael Vick was forced to cancel his book tour for his autobiography due to violent threats. They weren't just targeting Vick, either, as they also threatened Barnes and Noble stores, the publishing company, and Vick's family.
Vick has been through extreme highs and lows in his life. A lot of people go through challenges, but it's about what you learn from those challenges and how you come through it that really matters.
As far as we know, Vick has come through the fire a changed man. His autobiography discusses those changes. Per Amazon.com:
One of the most talented and polarizing athletes of our generation, Michael Vick's stunning story has captured news headlines across the nation. From his poverty-stricken youth, to his success on the field in high school and college, to his rise to NFL stardom and his fall from grace, Finally Free shows how a gifted athlete's life spiraled out of control under the glare of money and fame, aided by his own poor choices. In his own words, Vick details his regrets, his search for forgiveness, the moments of unlikely grace–and the brokenness that brought his redemption on the way to his celebrated return to the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles.
His book also gains an endorsement from The Humane Society of America.
"Vick has apologized and acknowledged the suffering he caused. He has expressed his remorse and his desire to help more animals than he harmed by being an advocate for the humane treatment of animals. We realize the potential Vick has to reach at-risk youth and pull them out of the quicksand…"
I understand the connection people have with dogs — in fact, some would call it an unhealthy obsession — and no one has to forgive Vick for what he did despite the obvious change he is attempting to make with the support of the animal community.
For anyone else still caught up in a complete stranger's past, it's time to move on. It can be difficult for a person who chooses to take out his anger on someone for their violent acts with more violent acts to understand, but life goes on. Go to a boxing class and hit a heavy bag. Get laid. Do something. Just let everyone else live.
