Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
When Jason Collins came out earlier this week, he probably didn’t know exactly how people were going to react. Little did he know that he would receive “incredible” support when he did.
“I hope that every player makes a decision that leads to their own happiness, whatever happiness that is in life,” Collins said. “I know that I, right now, am the happiest that I’ve ever been in my life. But when you finally get to that point of acceptance, there’s nothing more beautiful than just allowing yourself to really be happy and be comfortable in your own skin.”
I recently read a Jason Jordan article where he interviewed a high school basketball player who said he was shocked that there were gay players in the league. THAT is why Collins coming out is so important and such a seminal moment. He is changing the incorrect perceptions of millions of young Americans, and it will have an impact on their future for the better. Being openminded can only help you. Apparently even President Barrack Obama took notice of Collins’ actions.
“It’s incredible. Just try to live an honest, genuine life, and the next thing you know you have the president calling you,” Collins said. “He was incredibly supportive and he was proud of me, said this not only affected my life but others going forward.”
The President is correct about that; kudos to Collins for taking a truly major step and the future only looks brighter from here.
