A Sincere Apology – How Refreshing!
New York Mets reliever Guillermo Mota was suspended for 50 games this week for testing positive for banned substances under baseball’s substance abuse policy. This is not a surprise. No suspension would be a surprise at this point. What was a surprise was what came next: A sincere apology.
“I have no one to blame but myself. I take full responsibility for my actions and accept MLB’s suspension. I used extremely poor judgment and deserve to be held accountable.”
(rubbing eyes)….uh…what!? You take what? You deserve what? Are you kidding me!? Very impressive, Mr. Mota, very impressive.
To put this statement in perspective, let’s take a look at a few apologies from other famous people recently.
John Kerry this week:
“I sincerely regret that my words were misinterpreted to wrongly imply anything negative about those in uniform, and I personally apologize to any service member, family member, or American who was offended.”
Hmm…sounds like I made the mistake. I’ll get to work on my interpretation skills, though, we could all use some practice.
OK, how about MLB star Rafael Palmeiro on his positive steroids test:
“I have never intentionally used steroids. Never. Ever. Period. Ultimately, although I never intentionally put a banned substance into my body, the independent arbitrator ruled that I had to be suspended under the terms of the program.”
Bravo…bravo…
The Pope, earlier this year:
“I am deeply sorry for the reactions in some countries to a few passages of my address which were considered offensive.”
Again…he’s sorry about your reaction…
Come on, now…we all make mistakes. A wise person once told me, “Son, we all make mistakes. It’s how you handle yourself after the mistake that will distinguish you.” Thanks for the reminder, Guillermo.
It is amazing how hard it is for people to completely admit they are wrong these days. Great post.