Yesterday, LeBron put an ad in the Akron Beacon Journal thanking everyone from Akron for all their support, vowing to do whatever he can for his hometown. He also said:
"Akron is my home, and the central focus of my life. It's where I started, and it's where I will always come back to."
This would've been viewed as a great gesture from our native son if he would've handled himself like someone who cared about any one's feelings over these past few months. Because he's acted like a complete (fill in desired adjective here), this gesture that would normally be viewed as humble and caring, is seen (in my opinion) as very hollow. As someone who went to elementary school with him and was a high school student in Akron during his tremendous high school career, it's sad to see what he has become. During his years in Akron he was very humble, nice and approachable (as documented in this lovely musical montage). I was overjoyed that Akron finally had a representative on the global scene. I still get goosebumps (or at least I used to) when I see video of Austin Carr's emotional reaction after the Cavs won the draft lottery in 2003.
My opinion of LeBron remained unchanged during his 7 years in Cleveland however, after reading various articles and reports, the LeBron I thought I knew wasn't who he really was. Reports of his horrible attitude and lack of respect are truly saddening and disheartening, his great service and dedication to his hometown has been overshadowed by his ego. This type of person is not who I want representing my hometown, we may not have many notable natives, but I hope and pray that one day someone else will eclipse the so called "King".
