The Big Deal over Michael Vick

Oh woe to the avid sports fan who drools over the fantasy lives of professional athletes. Woe to the media for overvalueing athletes and entertainers in a country that is in desperate need of economic and educational reform. In 2007, it is obscene that an athlete, albeit great, can be crucified on national television for dog fighting. It is almost illogical, though I do understand the underlying message being sent.
In my estimation, the message is "entertain us like a good little n**** and we'll treat you like royalty, get out of line and we'll make an example of you". Now, in no way do I sponsor the wanton violence of dog fighting. Nor, do I sponsor animal cruelty in general. But I wonder if these same people question the savage practices which bring beef, pork, and chicken to their dinner table. Its okay to be cruel if we eat the animal. Allright, I get it. In fact, I have two wonderful pups of my own. Yet, I do question the importance of dogs in human society. Yes, they are fun and lovable pets, but is the life of an animal more important than that of a human being? I guess it depends on who you're talking to. I can't count the number of times when I've encountered stories about old well to do ladies that have lost their dogs on the news. They are willing to offer tens of thousands of dollars in order to get their dog back. But, when a young black or latino man gets shot in the "hood", it doesn't even make it to the news. In reality, the most you may see about it is a quick paragraph in the back of your local paper somewhere. To add to this, never is any money given "publicly" by individuals to aid in social causes which would benefit these communities in dire need. With that being said, are the lives of dogs more important than the lives of lower income citizens in America? In many cases, yes.
Indeed, Michael Vick broke the law. A high level athlete of his calibur should know what he's dealing with. It is impossible to be that visible and go around making bone head moves. The media in this day and age spares noone. Just look at how Britney Spear's has cracked under the spotlight, but the spotlight still refuses to give her the privacy she needs to heal. It is a cruel and resilient irony that the same system that builds you up, can tear you down just as fast. Yet, there is still the question of entertainment value via reality news. Its as if we like to see those viewed as infallible to show their weakness. The weaker they become the better for ratings. The lower our "stars" come down to earth, the more we prey on them. It is rather sadistic, sick and twisted.
I wonder if any of these hillbillies who currently want to lynch Michael Vick would feel the same way if it was their son being carted away for dog fighting. Would people be lined up coast to coast to chime in with their chants of "throw him in jail"?? I doubt it. The son of a hillbilly would be expected to fight dogs in America's eyes. But, a Michael Vick, thats alittle bit more interesting. Honey, get the popcorn ready..the shows about to start. Think about it.