Dear All,
Andre! How much does it matter that he has disclosed probable abuse of substances by his father? Abuses by his own choice of similar substances? Clever manipulations to avoid being caught? It would be so easy to judge him in whatever way anyone might choose, easy to find blame for his timing of disclosure. BUT: He has also decided not to agonize over the privacy of his truths. They are on the table for all to see. Does his disclosure influence or disrupt the wonderful energy he puts forth in his programs and community efforts? I hope not. Another celebrity with an abuse and drug history comes forward. Is it amends? Perhaps not. BUT: In the good work he does, moment by moment offering kids like he was hope for success, let’s continue to support him and his efforts. Let’s accept that all of us, status not mattering, make ugly and stupid mistakes, and still have the capacity to live responsible and healthy adult lives. YEAH to Andre for putting it out there for all of us to scrutinize and judge; BRAVO for all the good things he HAS done and continues to do.
I’ve always liked him; now I respect him. KUDOS to Andre.
Ellie Fishman Sternquist
Ph.D. Psychologist
