THE MAIL
L. Jon Wertheim's suggestion that after a loved one's death, a person can be resilient and exceptional by performing his job well is quite condescending. Perhaps Adrian Peterson had a different perspective because the first time he saw his son was only after the two-year-old had been savagely beaten. But as the father of two children, I'm certain that if faced with similar tragedy, my job would be of low priority.
Anthony Quattrocchi, Aberdeen, N.J.
Driven to Distraction
Sports, like entertainment, can be a distraction from tragedy (SCORECARD). Putting your average job in that same context, however, is a bit misleading. There is an element of fun in sports that gives people an opportunity to release their grief in a way that an everyday job may not.
Zachary Kluttz, Blacksburg, Va.
Your article reminded me of two of my favorite athletes, Brett Favre and Chris Paul, and how they responded to the death of their loved ones. In 2003, Favre passed for 399 yards and four touchdowns against the Raiders the day after his father died of a heart attack. Two days after Paul's grandfather was brutally murdered in '02, he scored 61 points for West Forsyth High School, one for every year of his grandfather's life.
Ryan Pretti, Medford, N.J.
Silver and Black Pride
I took exception to the cheap shot made at the Raiders in reference to wide receiver Denarius Moore (Everyman's Fantasy). While it's been a rough decade for Oakland, let's not forget its storied history and three Super Bowl titles.
Todd Harrison, Sands Point, N.Y.
A Sea of Memories
I want to thank Chris Ballard for his beautifully written article on Bison Dele (The Love Song of Bison Dele). I have always been haunted by the events surrounding the deaths of Dele, Serena Karlan and Capt. Bertrand Saldo. I am glad that Ballard's research and words will allow their memory to live on.
Rachel Kaizoji Cypress, Calif.
What Could Have Been
I used to think that when Kobe (Reflections on a Cold-Blooded Career) and Shaq were old and gray, they would realize they had the potential to win maybe 10 NBA titles together rather than just the three world championships they won together under Phil Jackson. After reading your story, I think they're probably thinking it now.
Russ W. Bill, Fountain Valley, Calif.
Not All About the Shoes
I can't believe the NFL fined Brandon Marshall (SCORECARD) for wearing green shoes in support of Mental Health Awareness Week. Marshall has acknowledged his mental health issues and was trying to support others as a result. It seems common sense and compassion have left the building.
John A. Brown, Bowling Green, Ohio
Is Kobe Bryant the greatest Laker of all time? A compelling case could be made based on his stats and five NBA titles.
Jeff Swanson
Everett, Wash.
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SOCIAL MEDIA
If Dan Snyder changes the name of the Redskins, what should it be?
David J. McGinnis The Washington Braves. Or maybe the Warriors?
Jeannie Rupe The Washington Taterskins! If Redskins is offensive, Taterskins surely can't be. Everyone loves those!
Kenny Lozano The Washington Politically Corrects.
Jennie Parry The Washington Pigeons?
Katie Jennings Not the Bravehearts. Wouldn't Mel Gibson get mad?
TWEET OF THE WEEK
How nice of the Dolphins to fly Mike Pouncey to MA so he can be served w/subpoena at Gillette Stadium.
Selena Coppock (@SelenaCoppock)
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HANNAH FOSLIEN/GETTY IMAGES (PETERSON)
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GEORGE GOJKOVICH/GETTY IMAGES (SNYDER)
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WALTER IOOSS JR. (COVER)
FOR OCTOBER 21, 2013
SIX ILLUSTRATIONS