Chad Ochocinco’s Tribute to Chris Henry… a Reminder of Our Humanity

     Football is, at times, an emotional game.  And while it’s easy to get caught up, both as a player and a fan, Chad Ochocinco, of all people, helped us all gather a bit of perspective on Sunday. 

     By now we all know about the Tragic Death of Bengals wide receiver Chris Henry this last week.  The player once known as Chad Johnson was Henry’s teammate, but more importantly, his friend.  Ochocinco has been something of a malcontent and an obnoxious showboat during his NFL career, most notably with his taunting and touchdown celebrations.

     During the second quarter of Sunday’s game against the San Diego Chargers, the Cincinnati Bengals star scored on a beautiful long pass from quarterback Carson Palmer.  It was a magnificent play; he blew by one of the game’s best defensive backs.

     As he crossed the goal line, he of the over the top celebrations dropped to one knee.  There were no obnoxious theatrics on this occasion.  He looked up to the sky, and you could see him talking… and we all knew exactly who he was addressing.  A few teammates stood by, but for the most part he was left by himself.  He stood up, he put his hand over his heart, and he walked calmly to the sideline.  He received a few congratulatory gestures from teammates, went to the bench, and put his face into his towel.  As teammate Jerome Simpson hugged him, we all saw the tears. 

     There was quiet from the crowd.  In the midst of a heated gridiron battle between two teams vying for position, all present took pause.  They saw not an arrogant superstar, but a young man who had lost a friend, and was in pain.  The battle would ensue shortly, but for one moment, we all remembered that football is just a game.  Of all people, Chad Ochocinco reminded us of our humanity.  God bless him for it.  Rest in peace, Chris.

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