A 'Un-Magic' Day in LA

[Burbank Lilywhite]

It's hard to believe that its been 15 years since Earvin "Magic" Johnson announced he had the HIV virus and was retiring from basketball. It is one of the few events outside of a catastrophic natural disaster that literally stopped this city dead.


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I've spoken to a few gay rights activists who maintain that Magic's announcement was both the best thing and worst thing to happen to those who have the HIV virus. It was a blessing because it showed that the virus cut across all demographics. However his subsequent health, and his physical appearance of someone who doesn't have the virus or has suffered the effects of it, has given the impression to some individuals that the virus is not a serious problem and something that does not require treatement. What is lost is the time and effort he spends on his health.

As Larry Bird once said of playing against Magic, it wasn't the no look pass that scared you, it was the no pass look. He was 'Showtime' here in LA and a joy to watch. His smile was brighter than any of the so-called 'stars' that try to illuminate the sky here.