I know that what I am about to write is subject to change. It is the vicissitudes of Life. But, having said this, I have watched both of Kyrie Irving’s major interviews since he left the Cleveland Cavaliers to join the Boston Celtics. As I watched, I factored in everything that I knew about his situation, making special note of things I’ve read that his ex-teammate LeBron James has also said.

Both men have been very careful and guarded. There appears to be a lot of thought that has been put into everything that has happened and neither person has uttered anything to throw anyone under the bus. There are times when I have not been clear as to what Kyrie has been trying to get across, and the media has had a field day trying to read something negative into his words. Ultimately, though, I keep returning to the issue of respect.

What I am impressed with most is the class that both Kyrie and LeBron have maintained in what has to be a tough situation. It seems both men are going out of their way to take the high road, in that I have heard or seen nothing of them bashing each other. I see all positive. There are many who have been turned off by Kyrie, perceiving him as selfish in wanting to leave his old team. I stood back and reserved judgment, and have come to the conclusion that my regard for him has taken a quantum leap, my desire to want to see him succeed enhanced.

Over the years, the sport of basketball has been one of my leading teachers. What I would encourage all of us to learn from the Kyrie/LeBron situation is that even in our tough times, it is possible to remain positive and not hurl hurtful things at others, all the while knowing that even in painful, life-changing, tough situations, we present our best selves if we keep it on the high road. I want to thank both men for this lesson.