Shocked that Phelps actually smoked marijuana. Crowned as one of the greatest Olympians, the eight Beijing Olympics gold winner whose face appeared on cornflakes boxes half the kids in America look at every morning as they munch on cereals. Why smoke on marijuana in a university's house party? It's like an ice sculptor who spent a week sculpturing a magnificent piece of work and bringing it under the hot sun to let it melt away.

He has apologized for ruthless behaviour and said that he'll "never repeat such mistake again" after driving in drunken state last year. This year, photo showing him inhaling marijuana from a bong leads to his sincere apology once more. I suppose many are having doubts about it, especially since a witness told the press that Phelps was seemingly familiar with the usage of the bong, like it's not the 1st time he uses it. Anyway, I'm stuck in between. It's highly possible he had really been smoking drugs but who knows if the witness was simply making up a story. Phelps' apology was bona fide, but so was the previous one. Sigh.

However, looking at things from another perspective, I do sympathize him. Putting swimming aside, he's a 23 year old who eats, sleeps and hang out with his friends. In other words, he, like any other youth, needs much guidance. And here comes the big big BUT. Everyone is busy exploiting him, taking care of his financial welfare very finely. When he comes up with a mistake, people lavish him with love and support without really pushing him to the right track. Why is that? Quite simple - they need him desperately for the future. Speedo needs him to sell swimsuits. Kellogg's needs him for the cornflakes. NBC needs him to drive the ratings for the London Olympics. The press needs him to make news. The IOC needs him to promote Olympics. Practically everybody is using him.

It would be good if someone tells Phelps about Heiden. The Eric Heiden who won all five men's speedskating gold medals at the Lake Placid Winter Olympics 29 years ago. He was a legendary like Phelps is today. The only difference is, this 21 year old wanted a life. And he walked away from money put in front of him. Now, this amazing person is an orthopedic surgeon.

Of course, I'm not saying that Phelps should quit swimming and study medicine. The pool had always been his second home and the whole nation shall be in bigger disappointment. But he has to make a wise decision by himself, envisioning his life in the process. We just hope that this talented star learn from his misjudgments and strive to produce shimmering records, without ugly stories tagging behind. Has to wait for the 3 months ban to be over though.

End of the day, I have no idea why I'm writing this contradictory post. True, I had been watching Phelps through a microscope during the Olympics, not missing any of his victories. Was intrigued by how he hugged his mother after the prize-giving ceremony. And so on. But seeing reports of his drunken driving, mixing with party girls and now inhalation of marijuana, can't say I'm not disappointed.

Whatever, turns attention to King of Clay Nadal for now. Teeheee. Off to bed.

*certain information from USATODAY. =)