Seahawks fans, Patriots fans, the moment of truth is almost here! And no other place is experiencing all the hype and expectation as the host city, Glendale, AZ.
As we all get ready for game day we'll all be mostly looking out for three things: the ads, the halftime show, and of course - the winner.
I fall under the "I only watch this for the ads" category, which brings me to one of the main issues to consider while watching the game this year:
The NFL's Domestic Violence Ad
This past year was a rough one for the NFL as domestic violence became a central issue. Ray Rice's case (surveillance video show's Rice punching his then fiancée in a hotel elevator) was the most notable of 2014, but not the only one. Rice's case only brought more attention to a prevalent issue at the NFL.
Despite rolling out a new tougher domestic violence policy last fall, America's favorite sports league seems far from getting a real grip on the issue of misconduct in general. There are more than 700 records of NFL players arrested for misconduct issues. The list includes lots of DUIs, assaults, domestic violence, and child abuse charges, among others.
As you watch the game this weekend with family and friends, take the opportunity to make this a topic of discussion with everyone, especially with your children, regardless of their age.
We live in a culture that often praises talent over character, and that's a problem because it sends the message that integrity is not important to success. Whether it's little league or international sports, every time we allow an athlete to go largely unpunished for their criminal behavior we are contributing to the problem.
You're probably sitting there wondering, "What do NFL or other sports leagues decisions have to do with me?"
Everything. Each and every one of those players had someone either encourage or discourage violent behavior as they were growing up. You and I have the power and responsibility to educate and influence those around us regarding domestic violence.
Domestic violence prevention starts at home.
"Do as I say, not as I do" doesn't apply here. Your children are watching, and based on what they're seeing at home, they'll either become a perpetrator, a victim, or someone who will treat others with dignity and respect.
Take this as an opportunity to have an open discussion about the issue.
Take this as an opportunity to seek help. Whether you're the victim or the abuser there's help available to you. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7.
And remember, even if you're not the victim, or the abuser, your silence could cost someone else their life, so speak up.