Mental illness has always existed. In yesteryear, unless completely melted down, men were expected to "rub some dirt on it" and move forward.....and, for better or worse, this is what they usually did.
I'm probably a lot older than most of you. In fact, my dad (barely) survived the Great Depression in a large family share-cropped cotton, nearly starving, and was a WW11 Battle of the Bulge survivor and veteran. Those men of the greatest generation were a different lot. And, yes, they were mentally tougher, in my humble opinion. Much more so. Yes, they struggled with things like "expressing their emotions", but they had grit. They won world wars and built the greatest nation on earth with sacrifice, sweat, and blood. They were tough dudes.
So, perhaps this is a good chance to learn a little about each other (in a faceless and sterilized internet kinda way). You see, even though we have no idea about exactly what he is dealing with, I can understand and appreciate all who automatically and staunchly defend Ridley's actions (or inactions, however you want to look at it). However, I already know that I will no receive the same understanding, in kind.....and that's unfortunate. Especially considering the fact that we all want the same thing for the guy......to be well.
Obviously, I'm not a licensed psychologist.....but If he truly had a meltdown rendering him incapable of playing football, then OF COURSE he shouldn't be playing football. If this turns out to be the case, then there is really nothing to debate, because we all agree. I have heard nobody say anything differently.
However, if he is dealing with some mental difficulties similar to what many of us have dealt with at one point or another in life, then I must be honest and leave the solidarity bandwagon, admitting that I am in the camp of playing ball. This is his job.....and a darn lucrative one, at that. So, yes, unless incapacitated, rub some dirt on it and push through. This is what I would try to do (and have done). If you knew me, you would realize that I am not a blathering idiot, insensitive, a blow-hard, or "tough guy". In fact, most describe me as pretty reserved and thoughtful.....but I am a guy that was raised to have a little more old-school American mentality on this type of issue than most, and I am not ashamed of it.
So please, before disparaging me, remember two things:
1. We all hope that Ridley is gonna be alright. None of us are savages.
2. I understand and respect your differing opinion on this matter.....and would simply ask the same from you. After all, if/when we as Americans lose the ability and willingness to engage in civil discourse and debate....all is lost.