I didn’t like it when people were making great sport of Toronto Mayor Rob Ford’s clear substance abuse problems, and I’m not going to make fun of Dennis Rodman now that he has finally checked himself into rehab. They both have chronic diseases, and they both need compassion and treatment. They both have the resources to get that treatment, unlike many Americans. Still, rarely have I seen someone reach their “bottom” on a more epic and worldwide stage than Mr. Rodman.
Rodman recently returned to the United States from his latest trip to North Korea.
He later apologized for comments he made in North Korea about a detained American missionary, saying he had been drinking and was under pressure as he organized an exhibition game there. He also sang “Happy Birthday” to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at the start of the friendly game.
Rodman’s last visit to North Korea came amidst rumors (probably not true), that Kim Jong Un had had his favorite uncle stripped naked and fed to 120 hungry dogs. What’s not disputed is that his uncle was executed by the state.
Rarely has it been more clear that someone’s judgment had become clouded by drugs or alcohol than with the spectacle of Dennis Rodman as self-appointed cultural ambassador and peacemaker with North Korea.
I hope he excels at recovery and regains a moral compass.
