In case you have been living under a rock, the media is reporting that earlier this week Brandon Davies – star BYU basketball player – sat in a chair across from someone with authority, and confessed that he had violated the BYU Honor Code by violating the Law of Chastity with his girlfriend.
I have been in that chair. Not the Brandon Davies chair – the other one. For more than five years I served as a Bishop in an LDS ward, and sat across from heartbroken people as a regular part of the calling.
Most people that would come and confess were there because they were heartbroken, in pain, and wanted to make things right with God. Some because they were “busted”, but at least they were there.
Many were scared. They feared the reaction of their parents, the reaction of their spouses, they feared their leaders’ reactions, and they feared the possible consequences. But looming even larger was the fear that they had disappointed the people they cared about, and who cared about them.
Usually that would entail a very small group. God/parents/spouse/friends/priesthood leaders. For Brandon Davies that list explodes to include hundreds of thousands of people.
First, his coach and his teammates – who are proving to be most generous in their public treatment of their fellow player. (See Salt Lake Tribune article from earlier today)
Next, the entire basketball frenzied BYU student body. Can you imagine walking across campus this week?
Finally, the die-hard Cougar Club boosters, the alumni, the fans, the sportswriters across the nation, and the little boys who want to be someone other than Jimmer. BYU was #3. #3! With a shot at going deep into the NCAA tourney. Can you imagine how he felt after the team got destroyed by New Mexico last night?
How could someone come forward knowing that so much is riding on it, and so many people are going to be disappointed? I can’t imagine the pressure, or the temptation to delay, deny or fight. “Sources” say that Brandon is taking responsibility for his actions, and is extremely remorseful. Most of the world would give BYU the finger and start walking.
As the public discussion seems to be about BYU being right or wrong to stand by the Honor Code, give some thought to a young man who is humble, meek, and strong enough to honor that code. I wish him well in his journey back. Godspeed.
Did you see this video?
http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=6174077
Talking about BYU honor code and whether it is realistic. And they were actually impressed by it.
What cracks me up is that is EXACTLY what would happen at many other colleges. They would look the other way until around, say – June. College sports is a seedy business.
BTW: Being a Bishop is awesome, so is holding the Priesthood.
I know the post Amy is talking about (did I tell you she and Kari are in my ward?? So was Melissa(GLamazon) but she moved) anyway, that irritated me, too. I didn’t know what it was for and, frankly, I couldn’t care less about the basketball but I find it offensive that everyone is throwing stones at BYU and their honor code when every player there knew what they were signing up for when they joined that team at that college. It would be like everyone saying, “Yeah, he cheated on his finals but let’s deal with that after the final games.” I feel bad for him and good for him for trying to make it right!
I can’t imagine being that bishop! I’m so glad I don’t have the priesthood!!
I was outraged at a fb status update that suggested he keep his mouth shut for a few months longer. I wanted to scream, “cause sports is soooo much more important than someone’s eternal salvation?” A good look at the world’s priorities is in order, I’d say.
I really respect him for having the integrity to seek repentance, especailly at a hard time to do it. I echo you and hope that he gets his life on the right track… as does his girlfriend… I think loosing a few basketball games would be worth it if he changes his life around and becomes the type of man that young lady really needs.Even though he made a bad choice I think he is a really good example… showing that when you mess up a “real man” acknowledges and even takes public humiliation for it. He could have so easily not done anything. I’m impressed with him and really hope that things turn out okay.
The timing couldn’t have been worse, but I hope people are supportive of Davies. My hat is off to both BYU for having and enforcing their standards, and Davies for having the courage to deal with a personal challenge on a national stage.
I totally agree with you, this is not about who’s number 1, this is about being able to look your Maker and Saviour in the eye and smile. My best to him and his travels.