Living Out Your Faith

 Even in a normal work environment it can be hard to live out your faith. Though the Civil Rights Act protects everyone from discrimination when it comes to hiring practices, it can still be difficult to navigate the do's and don'ts of any public display of those belief systems. Adding to the complication and gravity of the situation we have a very public figure in that of Joe Missoula, head coach of NBA team, the Celtics. If someone like him decides to share their faith, its a higher risk option and one that must be navigated carefully as it most certainly puts a target on your back to those that might be opposed.

A third barrier in this specific instance is the potentially perceived insult to the royal family as Joe is asked about his thoughts regarding their attendance of one of the Celtics games. The exact question was, "Did you get a chance to meet the royal family and if not, what was it like having them there in the building?" The question came from a reporter who noted that the Prince and Princess of Whales were sitting courtside and the inquiry was meant to measure what, if any, impact regarding their attendance was felt.

Joe, without missing a beat, having heard that a royal family was there, said, "Jesus, Mary, and Joseph [were there]?

The reporter then clarified with a giggle that it was Prince William and Princess Kate to which Joe replied, "Oh, no, I did not. I am only familiar with one royal family. I don't know too much about that one." He went on to respectfully say he was glad they were there and that they are hopefully Celtics fans but you could cut the tension of the silence after his answer with a knife. He simultaneously accomplished two things with one simple statement. (1) He spoke to the importance of the title "royal" and what he personally sees as the only people that qualify for that role. (2) He made those listening think about celebrity status and perhaps analyze our tendency to elevate or even to some degree worship people simply due to their perceived rank or position in life. Agree or disagree with his bold statements you have to respect his courageous and cunning reply.