For years the term “Bad Boy” defined Mike Tyson; Bad for the womanizing, reckless spending and the volcanic temper. Boy, because he was one. Not long ago, Mike Tyson would challenge man, woman and beast if you let him. But recently we have seen a grown man fighting the demons of his past instead of the world around him. Recently appearing on Oprah, it was evident Mike had been stripped down; of the belt, of the bling, of the bad attitude, leaving a humble and vulnerable being who is ready to start over. In one hour he redefined strength; by weeping openly, taking ownership for mistakes and singing the praises of a rival. Talk about leading by example. With an exceptional documentary by James Toback entitled “Tyson”, the loss of his young daughter, and a second appearance on Oprah with Evander Holyfield (their first televised interview together since the ear biting debacle), we are reminded of the steep climb Tyson has embarked on to claim his place in the world as a not just Mike Tyson but also “a good man”.  Watch video of interview and …
Tyson gives the audience a chance to peer into the journey he has taken in order to reach the summit of his career, while also being shown how quickly fans judge celebrities if they slip while ascending terrain we would never attempt. Vilified, tormented and made fun of for years; now we are hearing his side of the story and it’s not  humorous. Be it Tyson, Kanye, or Michael Vick, each have had their ass handed to them by the public, each laid it on the line, apologized, wept and moved in turn asking us, the media and society to do the same. Unfortunately, as the adage by Maximus goes “Are you not entertained?” In situations where facts are blurry and folks are at their worst, the Golden Rule rings true. Be it celebrity drama or personal, knee jerk reactions give rise to rumors, resulting in poor judgment and decision making. Perhaps if we were to listen first, gather the facts, then listen some more before judging or perceptions of others might be different or perhaps a much simpler way would be: “do unto others as you would have others do unto ield you.”  Watch Oprah /Tyson/Holyfield interview here .  - Nova B. Rutherford, “But I Love Me More” for everythingYNTK. Follow Nova on twitter @ http://twitter.com/butilovememore