Michael Vick

With the recent revelation that Philadelphia Eagles' quarterback Michael Vick has once again become a dog owner, many people, including animal activists, have become enraged. And to this I say enraged about what?

Lest we forget, Vick has served his sentence in prison for his part in running a dog fighting ring and his overall cruelty to animals. But it has to end there. Once released from his incarceration he was given another chance in the National Football League to rebuild his life, and that he did.

Not only did Michael re-establish himself in the sport, but he became active in promoting animal rights with appearances at schools and meeting with young people. He had a powerful story to tell, and he would ensure that his position would be used to influence those who could be affected the most.

`I understand the strong emotions by some people about our family's decision to care for a pet,'' Vick said in a statement. ``As a father, it is important to make sure my children develop a healthy relationship with animals. I want to ensure that my children establish a loving bond and treat all of God's creatures with kindness and respect. Our pet is well cared for and loved as a member of our family.''

I personally don't know what else this man could do to make things right. He has done all the right things, made all the right statements, paid his debt to society, and completed his probation. For those who are still bothered, I think it's time for you to move on to the many who have not yet gotten the message and continue to abuse animals.