Reject this sacrificial hoax

Noah Webster is turning over in his grave. The religious community is in utter disgust. And single moms working two jobs to feed four mouths are shaking their heads in disbelief. It's been just a few days since sports fans around the globe have heard one of the most egregious manipulations of the English Language since the Compendious Dictionary was first published back in 1806. Thanks to the Miami Thrice we now have a whole new view of what the word "sacrifice" means. And if those in the media fail to raise their voices on behalf of the Average Joe, the perpetuation of this hoax may gradually find momentum to redefine one of the most outstanding virtues of humankind.

Here is an example of the outlandish comments that were made. LBJ said, "'What we signed for is not important.... one thing that is important is we all sacrificed money, sacrificed a lot of things to be a part of this." DWade summed it up this way: "This is an unbelievable opportunity for the three of us to show the world that we're not money hungry, we're not selfish, and in this instance we're all making sacrifices, we're all taking less money, and we're all doing it to win championships. That's something that has been overshadowed a little bit with this whole thing coming together."

Let's be clear - sacrifice is not measured by how much is voluntarily surrendered, be it 10 million dollars or 10 minutes of one's time. In fact, it has little to do with the amount given and everything to do with the amount left.The Biblical story of the widow's mite still resonates in hearts today - she who gave a fraction of a cent outdid all those who gave large sums. Why? It was all she possessed. Giving sacrificially means giving out of one's own poverty or need. Those who give out of their abundance may be considered generous, loving or supportive, but let us not sit by idly when such an act is touted as the true virtue of sacrifice.

Please don't misunderstand me. I have no problem with entertainers - singers, actors, comedians, professional athletes, etc. - making gobs of money. Capitalism is like that: a system of supply and demand that rewards those who can provide what others are willing to pay for. Likewise, I do not take issue with an entertainer moving his venue for whatever reasons appeal to him. No problem at all with that.But characterizing the signing of a six year, $100,000,000-plus contract as "sacrificial" is like spitting in the face of every hard-working American man and woman who knows and lives its true meaning. Hey guys, do us all a favor and simply stick with "I'm blessed" - it's much more authentic, not to mention accurate.

So to all those journalists and commentators who pride themselves on speaking the truth without fear and giving a voice to the voiceless, expose this hoax! Don't let these three twentysomethings convince the public that their humble sacrifices have been overshadowed by the burning of jerseys and the criticism of TV specials. With lifted hands let us applaud their noble commitment to team, but with sharp words let us denounce their misguided attempt to garner our empathy.

Marc Goodwin is a Hayden resident and principal at Genesis Prep Academy in Post Falls.