Just as I was beginning to think that I was safe from Weiner overexposure, I awakened to this. Hard time in rehab (heh)—seriously? Early on in this pickle there was talk of rehab. In fact, the Weiner seemed to think that he could save himself by playing the rehab card. He asked for a leave of absence so that he might go away, rehabilitate, rejuvenate and come back firmer than before. All it takes is a stint in rehab pokey to redeem oneself to his/her fellow humans, spouse, and unborn children, right?
Sometimes. Myriad psychological, emotional, and social disorders abound. We are fortunate, in this day and age, to know what we know about them and have access to professional help. Rehabilitation therapy and psychotherapy have and will continue to make a positive difference in the lives of many. I am a fan of therapy; I have witnessed its good outcomes.
Weiner could, quite possibly, benefit from some therapy. According to the Post, a source said that Weiner is focused on saving his marriage. Alrighty then. I wish him the best in that regard. He needs to be given a chance to redeem himself to his wife and family.
I am not sure that he can or should be given a chance to redeem himself to his former constituents, however. It can be argued that he did not break any laws, that he was an effective representative, that these escapades have nothing to do with his professional life, etc. And, of course, there are the power-seeking, narcissistic personality traits that so many politicians seem to share. We have forgiven and forgotten a number of extramarital affairs carried on by our elected officials.
This is different. Weiner not only demonstrated poor judgment but abject stupidity. He had to know how risky his risqué behavior was. He added fuel to the fire of the opposition. This is, after all, one of the most polarizing times we have experienced on the political landscape. His sophomoric antics were embarrassing and absolutely, as our President said, a distraction.
I am no prude but the public display of tawdriness that resulted from Weiner’s actions made me squirm. Rehab? If Weiner is thinking that he has a shot at rising again, as a public figure, by going through rehab I can only quote an artist who shares his initials, “no, no, no”. Let’s hide the Weiner.
