I thought helping the new WBO Heavyweight
Champion Sultan Ibragimov win his first world title was one of
the most gratifying moments in my life but it took a close second to
taking a huge step in the process of getting my family together
again.
I have been writing about the division among
the Mayweathers and the things that have happened within my family
that have made us a target for most boxing writers. We have been
made to look like there is no such thing as peace and harmony and
unity in our family. Well, on June 10th, the much awaited reunion
became a reality.
I took the initiative to start the healing
process within the Mayweather family. We aren't different from
any other large family; it's just that we happen to be successful in
the world of boxing which has put our every action under the
spotlight and a microscope, and there have been times when even the
smallest thing has being scrutinized.
I can't say that
at times
some of my family members haven't contributed to this
negative picture that has been painted. I don't know of any large
family that doesn't have its share of characters and certainly its
share of disagreements. Well,
in my eyes
I guess that makes my family normal.
On June 10th, my brothers Roger and Floyd Sr.,
my mother and I sat down for dinner on my Mom's birthday;
unfortunately we couldn't get in contact with Floyd Jr., (maybe he
was out of town or maybe Roger wasn't able to contact him). He was
certainly welcome and surely missed. Nevertheless, we all sat down
and gave my Mom a birthday she will never forget. We had a party
designed solely for the purpose of healing and remembering the good
times, having conversations about the good old days before this
black cloud hung over the Mayweather name.
There was no press, there were no cameras and
maybe that's why things turned out so well. It's been awhile since I
had seen my two brothers in the same room sharing a laugh, re-living
stories and memories that brought a smile to our Mother's face. It
was a good time; no grudges, no egos, no negative energy coming
from anyone. Just good times.
I wish Floyd Jr. would have shown up as well
because I think we would have had a chance to talk. I would have
told him how proud I am of all his accomplishments and we would have
only talked about the good things that have happened in his life and
mine as well. No talk about anything negative, this wasn't a time or
a place for negativity. Our family gathering was a long time coming.
and it was so important to me, but even more important to my Mother.
The reunion was a total success in every way possible.
I hope that after reading this article and
looking at these pictures people will realize that the Mayweather
family is no different from any other family. Maybe even more like
your family as you read this.
One thing is for certain; we are
not so dysfunctional after all...
Questions? Comments? Post them in BRC's new Message Board...
4-29-2008
