Josh Hamilton has alcohol relapse

[js0000001]

I also had a recent alcohol relapse

Like every night!!!


Wahoo!

 

[craftysouthpaw]

You don't have to feel sorry for the guy. But I don't see how you can't have emphathy for him as a human being who has failings just like everyone else. Someone who has expended tremendous effort to beat his issues and is not just wallowing in them and living off the backs of others. I root for him to beat this for his own sake and his family's. From a selfish perspective, I root for him to beat it because I want to be able to watch one of the most gifted ballplayer's I've ever seen.

And the fact that he has taken this public has probably led others to get help. Like or not, that fits somewhere in the defination of a role model. If you don't want to view him the same as a teacher or fireman, that's fine. But it is also highly contextual depending upon your situation. I don't consider Josh a role model because I don't share his demons nor do I understand them. But his struggles and his very public discussion of them could (and probably has) help save someone's life out there much more than a teacher ever could. I agree with Tim here - it isn't black or white. Would he be a *better* person if he never touched drugs or alcohol his entire life? Perhaps - but that person probably wouldn't have the same ability to impact a current or former addict.

One more thing - Josh has never used his Christianity as a means to brow beat others or to moralize. And if the Christians you know do so or pass judgment behind the veil of their faith, you need to meet some new Christians. I know that has long been a black mark on Christianity but I ask that you seek a message that aligns itself with the Word. Every one of us are hypocrites to one degree or another. I don't want to derail this into a discussion on religion but those types of Christians do more harm to Christianity than any Muslim, agnostic, or atheist ever could. I know they're out there in droves, but please don't let the bad apples spoil the bunch. Josh's constant references to his faith can get a bit tiresome to me and I don't think God gives a hoot about the outcome of a ballgame - but it is cleary the primary crutch that Josh needs in his battle and if that's what he needs, he should be granted that. OK - I'm done.

 

[nkdbacks]

You don't have to feel sorry for the guy. But I don't see how you can't have emphathy for him as a human being who has failings just like everyone else. Someone who has expended tremendous effort to beat his issues and is not just wallowing in them and living off the backs of others. I root for him to beat this for his own sake and his family's. From a selfish perspective, I root for him to beat it because I want to be able to watch one of the most gifted ballplayer's I've ever seen.

And the fact that he has taken this public has probably led others to get help. Like or not, that fits somewhere in the defination of a role model. If you don't want to view him the same as a teacher or fireman, that's fine. But it is also highly contextual depending upon your situation. I don't consider Josh a role model because I don't share his demons nor do I understand them. But his struggles and his very public discussion of them could (and probably has) help save someone's life out there much more than a teacher ever could. I agree with Tim here - it isn't black or white. Would he be a *better* person if he never touched drugs or alcohol his entire life? Perhaps - but that person probably wouldn't have the same ability to impact a current or former addict.

One more thing - Josh has never used his Christianity as a means to brow beat others or to moralize. And if the Christians you know do so or pass judgment behind the veil of their faith, you need to meet some new Christians. I know that has long been a black mark on Christianity but I ask that you seek a message that aligns itself with the Word. Every one of us are hypocrites to one degree or another. I don't want to derail this into a discussion on religion but those types of Christians do more harm to Christianity than any Muslim, agnostic, or atheist ever could. I know they're out there in droves, but please don't let the bad apples spoil the bunch. Josh's constant references to his faith can get a bit tiresome to me and I don't think God gives a hoot about the outcome of a ballgame - but it is cleary the primary crutch that Josh needs in his battle and if that's what he needs, he should be granted that. OK - I'm done.

I definitely agree with all of this. You definitely don't have to like or respect the guy, but some of the hate and things I've seen on this thread are just ridiculous to me.

 

[ffgameman]

Why do people like to argue everything as black and white. Can't the addiction be both the results of poor decisions AND a disease that now needs to be treated? Sure, had he not got mixed up in the stuff he did, he wouldn't be dealing with this; however, that does not mean that his addiction isn't now a disease that is impossible for him to control on his own. That's like saying STDs aren't diseases that deserve treating because they are often the results of poor decisions, or like saying type 2 diabetes isn't a disease because it's often the results of poor diet and weight control. Certainly I wouldn't put this in the same realm as cancer or some other type of disease that has nothing to do with the actions a person takes. I don't have the same type of empathy either, but it definately deserves it's own place. Josh Hamilton is definately dealing with the results caused by his own actions, but at this point I'm sure he needs help and I wish him the best in getting it.

Wonderful post. On too many subjects (including this), some people try to make it a black or white, yes or no issue.

Alcoholism is a disease. Cancer is a disease. But, they are two VERY DIFFERENT diseases. I don't have the sympathy for an alcoholic that I do for a cancer patient. However, I'm sympathetic with JH because he is trying and has tried to remedy his problem.

He needs to try harder, yes. Addiction is a hard thing to overcome, but it can be done.

Edit: And, for the record, I can not stand alcohol or people who drink to get drunk. My sympathy with JH more lies in the fact that he is making an attempt to overcome his addiction. If he continues to fall back and doesn't make progress, my viewpoint may change.

 

[boomo]

I fully realize that there are people who can't stop smoking, drinking, eating, screwing, cutting themselves, getting plastic surgery, piercings, tattoos, fondling children, dry-humping their couch pillows, watching Jersey Shore, etc, etc

That doesn't mean I have to have simpathy for them, and it doesn't mean I have to recognize their personal problem as a "disease"

And that right there boys and girls sums it up perfectly.

wow chaz, could not agree more, alcoholics are disgusting to me, as until someone can name one good
thing that ever came from alcohol, they always will be, and calling it a disease? what *censor*.
I had a drinking problem, gambling problem and i smoked and quit every one of them cold turkey.
Josh Hamilton cannot land up back in a crack house
with a needle in his arm fast enough for me. The 2nd chance this stupid jerk was given, they money
bestowed upon him? Oh help me, im josh hamilton, i have a disease. die.

Geez Matt, there's a lot of bitterness in this post. This post really surprises me.

lol, you dont know me very well. Im pretty much satan
to people i hate.

 

[thefatguy]

I wonder what exactly was the relapse.. If it was a couple of beers or a night of drinking then big deal...plenty of people go through that and there has been only one Jesus that has walked this earth.. Everyone drinks ....

No big deal to you; a very big deal to a recovering alcoholic. Should all of Hamilton's skeletons be aired the way they are? Probably not.

 

[ThoseBackPages]

Why do people like to argue everything as black and white. Can't the addiction be both the results of poor decisions AND a disease that now needs to be treated? Sure, had he not got mixed up in the stuff he did, he wouldn't be dealing with this; however, that does not mean that his addiction isn't now a disease that is impossible for him to control on his own. That's like saying STDs aren't diseases that deserve treating because they are often the results of poor decisions, or like saying type 2 diabetes isn't a disease because it's often the results of poor diet and weight control. Certainly I wouldn't put this in the same realm as cancer or some other type of disease that has nothing to do with the actions a person takes. I don't have the same type of empathy either, but it definately deserves it's own place. Josh Hamilton is definately dealing with the results caused by his own actions, but at this point I'm sure he needs help and I wish him the best in getting it.

If you make a bad decision to have unprotected sex and you get ******, you can't get rid of ****** by refraining from sex.

If you develop type 2 diabetes, you can't stop eating and suddenly not have diabetes anymore.

You can choose NOT to drink and do drugs.

Charlie that's not true at all. I've known plenty of people who had Diabetes and lost it b/c they lost weight.

As a type 2 diabetic, and as a chemist, you can never lose diabetes. The proclivity is genetic, your genes cannot change your insulin insensitivity when you gain weight. Those people who have 'lost' they type 2 will get it back if they put weight back on.

This is correct. Carl, i do not blame you for think that though. Its the media's fault. Drew Carey (as well as other "famous" people) has stated publicly that he "no longer has" diabetes, which sadly is not true.

The damage that Diabetes does cannot be reversed at this time, as there is no cure for diabetes. The debate as to WHY there is no cure at this time is a whole other can of worms.

 

[homerun28aa]

I think that getting lung cancer from smoking and just developing pancreatic cancer is different, some people get unfortunate consequences from the poor decisions they make and some people never have to make that poor decision to get those consequences. The fact is I'm definitely not one of the "good" people on this board who have never broken the law. I drank before the age of 21, I drink socially to get drunk, however I do not smoke or do drugs. For me it's easy to drink once every two weeks with friends but for Josh perhaps the first time he tried this he felt a rush in his blood that I cannot relate to and suddenly he felt he had to fulfill a need. However what I can't sympathize with is the drug use, that is inexcusable. Based on the fact he shoots up it makes me feel like he's just a substance abuser and it isn't necessarily a chemical imbalance but more so irresponsible, careless, and flat out stupid and destructive decisions that he is now paying dearly for. It is unfortunate that he relapsed and my heart goes out to the ones close to him because they must be devastated, but there is just no excuse for drug use. Usually drug addicts go from one destructive behavior to another. Both people I know kicked their drug addictions with the chief ingredient to their success being cigarettes, now they smoke a pack a day instead of shooting up. That's why I don't believe he will ever fully kick his substance abuse, god forbid, I'd rather be wrong in this situation. Whether you're a Yankee fan or a Rangers fan I really like to think that we at least wish Josh a successful recovery.

 

[Austin]

If he weren't Josh Hamilton of the MLB Texas Rangers it wouldn't even be news. Lincoln Parker of Johnson City, Tn likes to drink too. I don't see the media headlines, the public outcry.

Really, Captain Obvious? There are no headlines about the avererage alcoholic?
Hamilton is a star player. Therefore, millions of Rangers and baseball fans care if his career and team are affected.
He's also a likeable and active member of the Rangers and Dallas-area community with kids.
Shouldn't parents be interested?
Can't fans be concerned about one of their favorite players?
Is that really so hard to understand?

 

[mchenrycards]

I think that getting lung cancer from smoking and just developing pancreatic cancer is different, some people get unfortunate consequences from the poor decisions they make and some people never have to make that poor decision to get those consequences. The fact is I'm definitely not one of the "good" people on this board who have never broken the law. I drank before the age of 21, I drink socially to get drunk, however I do not smoke or do drugs. For me it's easy to drink once every two weeks with friends but for Josh perhaps the first time he tried this he felt a rush in his blood that I cannot relate to and suddenly he felt he had to fulfill a need. However what I can't sympathize with is the drug use, that is inexcusable. Based on the fact he shoots up it makes me feel like he's just a substance abuser and it isn't necessarily a chemical imbalance but more so irresponsible, careless, and flat out stupid and destructive decisions that he is now paying dearly for. It is unfortunate that he relapsed and my heart goes out to the ones close to him because they must be devastated, but there is just no excuse for drug use. Usually drug addicts go from one destructive behavior to another. Both people I know kicked their drug addictions with the chief ingredient to their success being cigarettes, now they smoke a pack a day instead of shooting up. That's why I don't believe he will ever fully kick his substance abuse, god forbid, I'd rather be wrong in this situation. Whether you're a Yankee fan or a Rangers fan I really like to think that we at least wish Josh a successful recovery.

You might want to re-read the reports as this was only a drinking situation and not drug use. It has been reported that Hamilton gets tested three times a week for drug use and he has been tested twice already this week.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/br ... 5592.story

 

[phillyfan0417]

If he weren't Josh Hamilton of the MLB Texas Rangers it wouldn't even be news. Lincoln Parker of Johnson City, Tn likes to drink too. I don't see the media headlines, the public outcry.

Really, Captain Obvious? There are no headlines about the avererage alcoholic?

My mind is officially blown. I thought that maybe all other addicts who relapse are mentioned on some other site. Like if you're an engineer, there is some random site for you to report on this...


I just cant believe we're talking about this because he's famous.

 

[Musial Collector]

For those in this thread that have wished death to Hamilton, all I can say is Karma is a Bitch.

 

[Titans74]

If he weren't Josh Hamilton of the MLB Texas Rangers it wouldn't even be news. Lincoln Parker of Johnson City, Tn likes to drink too. I don't see the media headlines, the public outcry.

Really, Captain Obvious? There are no headlines about the avererage alcoholic?
Hamilton is a star player. Therefore, millions of Rangers and baseball fans care if his career and team are affected.
He's also a likeable and active member of the Rangers and Dallas-area community with kids.
Shouldn't parents be interested?
Can't fans be concerned about one of their favorite players?
Is that really so hard to understand?

Wow. Calm down hero. You're about to burst into tears over a baseball player. Deep breaths.

So he's a drunk who likes to drink. SO WHAT. Nothing news worthy at all. Leave him alone, let him lead his life the way he wants and who gives a rats fart what he does in his personal life. Bunch o' drama queens worried about what another grown man does outside of work? Lmao.

As long as he shows up to the ballpark and puts up decent numbers, what else shoukd any of us care about? You care what he eats for breakfast too?

 

[Austin]

If he weren't Josh Hamilton of the MLB Texas Rangers it wouldn't even be news. Lincoln Parker of Johnson City, Tn likes to drink too. I don't see the media headlines, the public outcry.

Really, Captain Obvious? There are no headlines about the avererage alcoholic?
Hamilton is a star player. Therefore, millions of Rangers and baseball fans care if his career and team are affected.
He's also a likeable and active member of the Rangers and Dallas-area community with kids.
Shouldn't parents be interested?
Can't fans be concerned about one of their favorite players?
Is that really so hard to understand?

Wow. Calm down hero. You're about to burst into tears over a baseball player. Deep breaths.

So he's a drunk who likes to drink. SO WHAT. Nothing news worthy at all. Leave him alone, let him lead his life the way he wants and who gives a rats fart what he does in his personal life. Bunch o' drama queens worried about what another grown man does outside of work? Lmao.
As long as he shows up to the ballpark and puts up decent numbers, what else shoukd any of us care about? You care what he eats for breakfast too?

Since you apparently have poor reading comprehension, read it slooowly this time, instead of using the cop-out lame reaction of calling people "drama queens."
Hamilton is a public figure with millions of fans.
Rangers fans obviously care if he relapses because it could affect his career and hurt the team.
Many Dallas-area parents care because Hamilton works with children and gives speeches to them about responsibility.
Obviously, if he just drank a lot, like many ballplayers, it wouldn't be a news story.
But Hamilton has a long history of addiction.

 

[Titans74]

Like talking to a kid with downs syndrome.

WHO CARES.

So he's a star. Whoopty do. Tommy Lee is a star, Nicky Styx is or was a star. Drug addicts. No one boo hoos for them. No one is blabbering on about Gooden or Strawberry. And rightly so. Steve Howe ring a bell? Or are you too young? They are all grown men who made choices. And so is Hamilton. He's free to do as he pleases. If it ends his career, his choice. You're as bad as the media. Here you are, obsessed with your man crush going on and on about kids and appearance and parents. Blah, blah, blah.


I feel bad for Clemente. Died doing charitable work in an accident. I don't feel bad and could care less about anyone that chooses to drink or dope themselves to death. I don't hate them or wish bad things upon them, I simple don't care and find it ridiculous that a bunch of other grown men and teenage boys would be so uptight and outraged over the decisions another person chooses to make with their own lives. It's funny
Lmao.

 

[seitas]

Josh Hamilton has brought all of this criticism on himself. He puts himself out there as a role model and preaches about morality and making the right decisions. Ultimately he's a hypocrite.
There have been alcoholics playing baseball for years but he decided to make himself a poster child for sobriety and that is a dangerous position for an addict to put themselves in. Can you imagine if there was a headline everytime Mickey Mantle and Billy Martin got too drunk and Whitey Ford had to carry them home? There wasn't because the media was different and because those guys didn't go out and preach to people. Josh Hamilton seems like a dumb, immature child, who because of his talent has been given amazing opportunities.
He's a great baseball player and if weren't for those damn blue eyes he'd be able to see during the day.

 

[Titans74]

Josh Hamilton has brought all of this criticism on himself. He puts himself out there as a role model and preaches about morality and making the right decisions. Ultimately he's a hypocrite.
There have been alcoholics playing baseball for years but he decided to make himself a poster child for sobriety and that is a dangerous position for an addict to put themselves in. Can you imagine if there was a headline everytime Mickey Mantle and Billy Martin got too drunk and Whitey Ford had to carry them home? There wasn't because the media was different and because those guys didn't go out and preach to people. Josh Hamilton seems like a dumb, immature child, who because of his talent has been given amazing opportunities.
He's a great baseball player and if weren't for those damn blue eyes he'd be able to see during the day.

Agreed. Except for the blue eyes part, that just got too weird for me lol

 

[Super Mario]

I don't believe any addiction is a disease, as some have debated in this thread. It's my personal opinion. Just as I don't believe that being obese is a disease. Yes, some people may have certain diseases that contributes to their obesity, but not every person who's extremely overweight can claim a disease. Some people are just lazy and have a poor diet, and if you can classify that as a disease, then you need help my friend.



I didn't mean to cause such an uproar with my original post in this thread. I don't even think I said anything bad. I don't dislike Josh Hamilton, and I enjoy watching him play baseball. BUT, I have no sympathy for an addict who relapses. It's his own fault, and I don't feel sorry for him. He is an adult, and he makes his own choices. But I feel as if some people put him on a pedestal as someone to look up to for overcoming some sort of odds. It'd be different if he had cancer or something and made a strong come back, but his 'odds' were self inflicted, and his relapses are self inflicted, so I don't think that's something that should be celebrated.



Just my opinion. Call me wrong, disagree with me, that's fine. I'm not going to argue with you about it.

 

[jbmm161]

Josh Hamilton has brought all of this criticism on himself. He puts himself out there as a role model and preaches about morality and making the right decisions. Ultimately he's a hypocrite.
There have been alcoholics playing baseball for years but he decided to make himself a poster child for sobriety and that is a dangerous position for an addict to put themselves in. Can you imagine if there was a headline everytime Mickey Mantle and Billy Martin got too drunk and Whitey Ford had to carry them home? There wasn't because the media was different and because those guys didn't go out and preach to people. Josh Hamilton seems like a dumb, immature child, who because of his talent has been given amazing opportunities.
He's a great baseball player and if weren't for those damn blue eyes he'd be able to see during the day.

Agreed. Except for the blue eyes part, that just got too weird for me lol

He is talking about the comments Hamilton made about his struggles to hit in day games.
He quoted a dr saying that it is harder for people with eyes to see in the sunlight.

 

[alexs64]

I think this is all my fault. I was messing around on a recent trip to Louisiana and I went into a "Black Magic" shop, where I was actually looking for some magic tricks for my son who loves doing magic tricks for the family. And no one explained to me that a "Black Magic" shop isn't where black folks performing magic tricks in their spare time (I know I know...tell me about it, I was just a surprised as you!!!) Anyhow, right before I went there, I stopped by the local Wal Mart (which by the way are more plentiful than McDonalds down there) and I bought a Topps value box hoping to hit a Bryce Harper Superfractor auto. I didn't end up with the super and so the story rolls on.... I opened up the Update packs and got a Hamilton...pretty cool right? After learning about the kind of magic the shop REALLY did, I was shown by the owner how to put a little MOJO on someone....He took the card, said a few words....threw some beer on it....and BAM!!!



FRONT PAGE OF YAHOO!!

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=jp-passan_josh_hamilton_suffers_relapse_020212