I could not help but be totally dumbfounded about all of the chatter (much of it negative) surrounding former NFL Star Michael Vick and his desire to return to the NFL. I must admit, I am shocked at the fact that so many people have been so personally vindictive or have publicly shared feelings of hatred regarding his conviction. It’s as if people won’t let this go or allow Vick to get on with his life.

After Vick’s recent release from prison, although he had become fully free from all of his legal obligations, the discussion about his fate became even more venomous. It seems as if everybody from radio talk show hosts to the local paper boy are questioning his sincerity and feelings of remorse, and whether he truly has paid his dues for his obviously poor choices in life.

Let me be the first to say to you that I have no doubt that Michael Vick is truly sorry for his poor decision. If losing his livelihood, being separated from his family and friends, squandering his riches, blowing a promising career, and having the stigma of being called an “ex-con” is not payment enough, then I don’t know what is.

I hear many commentators say, “Let justice prevail,” but often when they talk about a professional athlete (especially a guy like Michael Vick) doing something wrong, they almost want to give him the death penalty.

While I agree wholeheartedly with Commissioner Goodell’s suspension of Vick for the start of the NFL season, I do feel he deserves the chance to try to resume his career in the league. This does not mean he should automatically land a job on an NFL team. However, I would like him to have a chance, like any other citizen in this nation.

Ultimately, it will be up to Michael Vick to prove all the “naysayers” wrong by once again becoming a star on the football field. However, his ability to really make his mark on the lives of others is no longer restricted to fantastic dashes to the end zone or effortless sixty-yard spirals. Michael Vick’s real challenge will be excelling in the game of life and sharing his story of redemption with those who also need and deserve a second chance.