The information leaking out in regards to the child abuse scandal at Penn State has quite captured my attention. I can't seem to refrain from reading articles, watching videos, reading and listening to commentary about this tragedy unfolding before us.
It is unfortunate that JoePa has been forced to leave in such a wave of disgrace that will undoubtedly mar his amazing, record-setting career as Nittany Lions' head coach. I regret that for him. With that being said, had he reported the abuse to police and dismissed Sandusky, I believe that he would not only have averted his shameful exit; but I believe that -dare I say it- he would have even looked good. Standing up to injustice and confronting those responsible is just the right thing to do!
Of course the big question is "Why didn't someone, anyone report the abuse to law enforcement?" While such questions are important and must be asked, I am stuck upon what seems to be the deeper, sinister issue lurking below: money and the image of PSU are more important to the powers-that-be than protecting the welfare of a child. Nay, of numerous children. Turning a blind eye and allowing the abuse to continue implicitly states that the lives of these victims do not matter as much as the reputation of Penn State and upholding its image of class and success. But look where that has gotten them.
That this scandal is now synonymous with the school is terribly unfortunate. It is an injustice for anyone affiliated with State College, PA. (Side note: I narrowed my undergraduate college decision to Clemson & Penn State. Perhaps that has stoked my interest in this situation.)
I cannot say whether or not shutting down Penn State's football program is the right thing to do. After all, the players are not the ones responsible, and I am never in favor of collective punishment (nor is international law for that matter). But given the NCAA's response to the improprieties at Miami and Georgia Tech, the "punishment" for Penn State should be harsh. True, recruiting violations and the like should not be overlooked. But I feel that the abuse in the Penn State case grieves the heart of the Father more than paying college athletes. (Not that Jesus will be considered in the ramifications for PSU football.)
One should, I believe, take time to consider this fact: If well-researched statistics hold true, Sandusky is extremely likely to have been a victim of sexual abuse. This is no way excuses his actions, but I feel that it is noteworthy.
Another tidbit: I very much like Jon Stewart's response: http://www.hulu.com/watch/299167/the-daily-show-with-jon-stewart-penn-state-riots. It's worth a watch!
