Thorpe's plight shows how sport's highs can lead to lows

Turns out sports heroes are human. Lots of folks without enough fame to sell newspapers or get notice online go through the same troubles. You don't need to experience the highs of winning to get to the lows of being human.

It's all about experimenting with turning the focus toward others rather than yourself. Experiment with service to others, working in the community (as the article stays), helping foster excellence in others, giving back to the sport. Life is chock full of excitement, challenges, and worthy causes. We need to help each other find them (even if they lack adrenaline). It seems to be extremely wise to avoid alcohol throughout the process.

"How about using his significant talent to coach the next generation and share in their glory?"

A agree. I digress a bit but what if, after mid-life, Michael Jackson had transformed for the better and focused attention on becoming an awesome producer to bring up next generation's stars. Continuing to do what you are good and with your mind since your body always goes soft. You love doing what you do so much and that's what matters all your life. After a while all the money and chicks does get boring.

I hope someone from some organization in Australia steps up to help 'the torpedo'. He still has a lot to contribute to Swimming Australia or maybe in some countries, in my humble opinion. It is all mind over obstacles and it can be done.

Depression kills. We just lost Phillip Seymour Hoffman. I really hope Thorpe has the support he needs.

The Torpedo needs to realize how lucky he is: handsome, rich, living in a nice country. Go visit poor people in a poor country. A reality shock must awaken him from his numbness.

"If you don't create balance in your life, life will balance it for you."

That's the point I was trying to make. Just like some great singers can become great producers which MJ did not. Great athletes can sometimes become great coaches. Not guaranteed, of course. But it's worth a shot to help achieve life-long balance. Maybe if Thorpe goes for this it could help.