Metta World Peace: What's in a name?

Metta World Peace (Almendarez)

Some might say that Ron Artest had no business changing his name to Metta World Peace. 

These cynics could point out that his background has been far from peaceful.  Artest himself has told the story of why he plays basketball "really rough."  It has a lot to do with growing up in a neighborhood where, if there was a dispute, someone could easily end up dead.

And someone did. 

Wikipedia explains that Artest "witnessed the death of a fellow player on a basketball court."  This was no accidental occurrence.  In his own

words:  "It was so competitive, they broke a leg from a table and they threw it, it went right through his heart and he died right on the court."
This "altercation" took place "at a 1991 YMCA-sanctioned basketball tournament."

Violent surroundings are prone to stick with you, one way or another.  Critics certainly remember Artest's 2007 domestic-violence conviction.  Not to mention his 2003 TV-camera incident.  And that 2004 Michigan brawl…

So the question remains:  Does a history like Artest's mean that a person has no right to a name like "Metta World Peace" - or does it mean that he needs it all the more?

There's something to be said for taking on a moniker like that – no matter how many all-too-human failings we all have.  It's a constant reminder that there is a better way and that life can be turned around.

For those outside the Buddhist loop, Metta means "loving kindness and friendliness towards all."  And World Peace?  Artest has stated:  "Changing my name was meant to inspire and bring youth together all around the world." 

Resources

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metta_World_Peace

Copyright July 16, 2013 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved