A Father's Day Nightmare
Ouch, on the eve of Father's Day weekend, I can't think of a more gut wrenching way to enjoy a holiday that's predicated on paying homage to fathers around the world. When I read this story about Vince Wilfork's son robbing him and selling his college and Super Bowl rings, I was instantly heart broken. Vince and I locked horns a number of times during my playing career. We were both large bellied men, with the same physical frame identical to E. Honda from street fighter. I never played nice with any of my opponents. It was against my personal creed. I always felt like we can be friends in the off season, but right now you're going to catch these hands homie. I wouldn't consider Vince and me best of buds, but the respect is mutual. Real recognize real, and what's understood doesn't need to be said. I grew up a Miami Hurricane and Michigan Wolverine fan. So banging in the trenches against one of the most decorated nose tackles in NFL history was pretty damn fun.
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After reading the whole story I couldn't help but think what would I do if my son stole my Super Bowl ring or any other paraphernalia of mine? Would I put my hands on him? Would I turn him into the police? Disown him? Now to be honest, I have had family steal from me before and it's disappointing and hurtful. I chose to deal with it and move on, but I never forget. Especially when you've given the "thief" everything they need to succeed. Sadly enough it's seem like Vince's son is dealing with some demons. He was kicked out of the University of Houston his freshman year due to some drug issues. Stories likes these question your foundation as a parent. I mean where did you go wrong? Drugs and theft aren't the make of a guy who ever went to bed hungry or went to school with holes in his clothes. Vince has won three Super Bowl rings and national titles, plus a shit load of money while he was playing. If anything, young Wilfork should have been a college graduate with a great career ahead of him.
I walk into my man cave every morning from time to time and I stare at my game jerseys and plaques on the wall. It's a great reminder to myself that I beat the odds so I should hold my head high. Every father wants their son or daughter to be happy, find their passion, and never disgrace the family name. I hope D'anudre Wilfolk finds help. It's a hard story to read. It's one thing to hurt your parents for doing something stupid or even selfish. However, when you disappoint your mom and dad it's a different type of hurt. Your legacy as a man can only live on through your kids. When your kids commit a crime like this, it's makes you question what was it all for. My prayers are with the Wilfolk family. All you can do is leave it in God's hands. Happy Father's Day to all.