by Lolito Tampus

Created on: December 26, 2009   Last Updated: December 28, 2009

The famous safety warning goes: " Accidents don't just happen, they are caused." This is probably the principle most fire and police investigators are oriented when it comes to troubles and mishaps. Specifically, this must have been  the reason why the police officers were insistent to inquire from Tiger Woods the facts about the early morning crash near his mansion situated in a peaceful and exclusive neighborhood in Florida. The story about the freak incident could have been closed swiftly if not for the delay and hesitation from the part of the superstar to explain everything which included his short  stay in the hospital. There could have been no persistent inquiries and prolonged anxieties from the curious fans. And there could have been no abrupt change in the life of the ace golfer.

We cannot avoid the inquisitiveness of the people, the authorities and the press to exact the truth for the status of Tiger Woods is worth touching and discussing. Tiger could have explained right there and then to refrain from excessive sensationalism which eventually caused him to postpone games and to  evade media coverage. Everything could have been clarified which apparently goes to the extent of involving his private and domestic problems. Being honest and being sorry for whatever misdemeanors could have lessened the element  of surprise and ridicules. Instead there could have been sympathy and understanding.

The simple incident became complicated because of excessive gossips, rumors and speculations. Intrigues widened which went as far as the involvement of alcohol, drugs and women. It was a long  feast day for those who are involved in the world of sports, gossips and entertainment and who can be the direct recipients of monetary or rating benefits and the advantages to gain more listeners and watchers. If there were indeed truths to some rumors, at least there was a gap or space for the sportsman to adjust and heal to the situation when needed. Tiger is just a human being to commit mistakes as a player or as a husband who cannot avoid family troubles.

Tiger Woods is an international sensation or celebrity. He has the outstanding records and possessions. He has the charisma, talents, looks, wealth and magnetism that attract everyone to follow closely all his games. But he is a sports czar who carries the same responsibilities as other public figures like the politicians who have the inherent prestige to display sound values and attitudes for the people from all walks in life to imitate and emulate. He is a public commodity, a hero, an idol and an open book for every well-wisher who catapulted him to stardom.

The option for privacy was not an advisable move. The employment of silence, normal alibis and overconfidence was not necessary. Even the dependence on the issues of human and legal rights cannot surpass the extreme fanfare and anxiety which were either to despise or pity. Tiger is a big thing, a special identity, a financial prospect and a top story. Whether he is a sinner or saint, he can be significant for a longer time. He remains to be adored, ridiculed or intrigued for a lifetime. With the preceding factors, favoring privacy is a far-fetched notion.

There are a lot of famous figures out there who suffered the same predicament as Tiger. They were able to stand up after years of struggles and trials. They were honest enough to tell the truth and faced the humiliating consequences. They were able to explain things and events which were caused and they were able to live with shame. They know the incidents and happenings were caused and that they atoned for their mistakes. If they can do it, Tiger can do it too.

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